In a decisive crackdown on illegal mining activities, police in Ghana’s Central North Region have arrested five individuals, including three Chinese nationals, during a targeted operation.
The Special Anti-Galamsey Taskforce of the Central North Regional Police Command carried out the arrests on April 7, 2025, following intelligence about ongoing illegal mining in the area. The suspects include two Ghanaians—Duut Kwabena Sakakba, 38, and Douglas Nyamekye, 36—and three Chinese nationals identified as Ma Jian, 37, Ma Young, 31, and Ma Haibi, 54.
The operation uncovered two heavy-duty excavators being used at the mining site. Both machines, with chassis numbers SY 6HK1-XABEA-01-C3 and SWE365E00762, were abandoned by their operators, who fled the scene with the ignition keys upon spotting the taskforce. Authorities are now working to trace the equipment’s owners.
A Toyota Hilux pick-up truck with registration number GE 2743-13 was also seized at the site, adding to the evidence gathered. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects, currently in police custody, will be processed for court in the coming days.
Regional authorities have reiterated their commitment to intensifying the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, which continues to devastate Ghana’s environment and water resources. The Regional Police Commander, addressing the media, emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy on illegal mining and called on community members to support law enforcement efforts by providing credible information.
The arrests mark another milestone in the region’s battle against galamsey, highlighting the collaborative efforts between security forces and local communities. Environmental groups and concerned citizens have applauded the operation, urging authorities to ensure the suspects face the full force of the law while addressing the root causes that fuel such illicit activities.
This operation serves as a warning to illegal miners that the law will not spare anyone found culpable, irrespective of their nationality or status.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
