In a significant crackdown on illegal mining activities, the Central North Regional Police Command has detained three suspected Chinese nationals involved in unauthorised operations along the River Pra at Twifo Denyase, within the Twifo Atti-Morkwa District of the Central Region.
This operation was carried out by a dedicated 25-member task force, led by Regional Commander DCOP Abraham Acquaye, following directives from Inspector General of Police, COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno.
During the raid, law enforcement officials confiscated two pump-action shotguns, 22 cartridges, and two excavators. Additionally, they destroyed chanfan machines believed to be integral to the illegal mining operations.
In a press briefing, DCOP Acquaye elaborated that upon the police’s arrival, numerous Ghanaian accomplices fled the scene, with some swimming across the river to escape capture.
However, the Chinese suspects were located and apprehended at their residence.
“If you could testify, we have sustained our operations for almost a week, but yesterday, between the hours of 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM, we received information about illegal mining activities at Atti-Morkwa, around Twifo Praso.
“So we followed up to effect their arrest. The moment they spotted the police approaching, they all dived into the river, fully aware that we lacked life jackets to pursue them.
“These Chinese nationals were also involved in galamsey, and when they saw the police, they too threw themselves into the river and swam to the opposite bank.
“We made considerable efforts to gather intelligence about their movements and, anticipating they had escaped, we manoeuvred to the location where they were hiding.
“Eventually, we managed to apprehend these three individuals,” he explained.
This operation is part of a larger initiative by the Central North Regional Police Command aimed at combating illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
Over the course of four days, the command has successfully arrested 23 suspects involved in such activities and confiscated six excavators, in addition to other heavy mining equipment.
DCOP Acquaye pointed out that some equipment that could not be transported was destroyed on-site to prevent any further illegal use.
Despite these commendable efforts, he acknowledged several challenges faced by the police, including interference from political figures and influential individuals attempting to obstruct operations.
Moreover, the command is grappling with resource limitations, such as the urgent need for bulletproof vests, life jackets, and vehicles, which are crucial for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of their personnel.
DCOP Acquaye reaffirmed the command’s steadfast commitment to eradicating illegal mining activities and preserving Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.
