Western Region police arrest 44 suspects in major ‘galamsey’ raid

Police have apprehended 44 suspects related to illegal mining (galamsey) during a series of planned, intelligence-driven raids in the Western Region.

This crackdown is part of the ongoing efforts by the Western Regional Police Command to tackle the rampant issue of galamsey, which poses a serious threat to the region’s environment and natural resources.

The operation commenced in Wassa Amanten, where police forces executed a surprise raid that resulted in the capture of 27 individuals found operating at unauthorised mining sites.

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Alongside the arrests, authorities seized critical equipment, including one tricycle, an unregistered Boxer motorbike, multiple water pumping machines, and a “changfan” machine, which was subsequently destroyed on-site.

Continuing their aggressive stance against illegal mining, the police conducted two additional operations on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in the notorious mining hotspots of Adamaso and Wassa Mamieso.

In Adamaso, a total of 12 suspects were taken into custody; among them are Abraham Antwi (26), Jeremiah Adusei (37), Eric Martey (41), and George Amoah (45).

Authorities confiscated five water pumping machines during this operation.

Further east, near the Mamie River in Wassa Mamieso, police arrested five more individuals: Junior Simon (21), Stephen Tetteh (30), Samuel Kwarteng (19), Matthew Wofatey (20), and Seidu Ayigbe (30).

In this operation, police also recovered a Sunny Excavator 215 Control Board, enhancing their efforts to dismantle illegal mining operations.

The Western Regional Police Command has reiterated that these coordinated raids are part of a broader initiative to combat illegal mining activities that continue to endanger the region’s ecosystems and water bodies.

The police emphasised their commitment to ensuring that such operations are not only effective but also sustainable in protecting the environment.

With the continued threat of illegal mining, authorities are urging community members to report suspicious activities and collaborate with law enforcement to safeguard their natural resources.

As the fight against galamsey intensifies, the Western Regional Police emphasise that they will maintain their vigilance and take decisive action to protect the region’s environment for future generations.

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