The Western Regional Security Council has launched an anti-illegal mining operation in the Adiewoso community of the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality, leading to the arrest of twelve suspected illegal miners.
Their arrest followed a complaint by the Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL) over declining production, premature tree deaths, and massive uprooting caused by chemicals used in galamsey activities.
This came after cocoa farms in the area had already been devastated, with rubber plantations now becoming the latest target of illegal miners.
According to GREL, more than six hectares of rubber plantation, accounting for about 2,000 mature rubber trees ready for tapping, have been destroyed.
The company fears further destruction could cripple its operations if the trend continues.
The joint operation, carried out on Thursday, August 21, involved personnel from the Second Infantry Battalion, the police, and national security.
The taskforce swooped on two communities — Adiewoso and Tettrem, both in Tarkwa Nsuaem — where 12 suspects, including one female and eleven males, were arrested.
Authorities retrieved two tricycles and a motorcycle, while 25 chanfang machines used for illegal mining were destroyed and set ablaze.
Western Regional Security Liaison Officer, Brigadier General Musa Whajah (Rtd.), who led the operation, confirmed the arrests and destruction of equipment.
He also advised GREL to strengthen its engagement with host communities to highlight the devastating impact of galamsey on their operations.
The 12 suspects, together with the seized items, are currently in custody at the Agona Nkwanta Police Station, pending further investigations.
