The Central North Regional Police Command has arrested three Chinese nationals in a targeted anti-galamsey operation at Twifo Denyase in the Twifo Atti-Morkwa District of the Central Region.
The operation, carried out on the directive of the Inspector General of Police, COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, was led by Regional Commander DCOP Abraham Acquaye and executed by a 25-member task force. It forms part of ongoing efforts by the Ghana Police Service to clamp down on illegal mining activities, particularly those threatening the River Pra and surrounding ecosystems.
During the raid, officers seized two pump-action guns, 22 live cartridges, and two excavators believed to have been used for illegal mining. Several chanfan machines were also destroyed on site to prevent further environmental degradation.
According to DCOP Acquaye, several Ghanaian accomplices managed to flee the scene, with some reportedly swimming across the river to escape arrest. The three Chinese nationals, however, were apprehended at their residence and are currently in police custody assisting with investigations.
Over the past four days, the Central North Police Command has arrested a total of 23 suspects involved in illegal mining, confiscated six excavators, and dismantled other heavy equipment. Items that could not be moved were destroyed on-site.
Despite these achievements, DCOP Acquaye highlighted significant challenges, including political interference and logistical constraints such as a lack of bulletproof vests, life jackets, and transportation vehicles—essential tools for personnel safety during such high-risk operations.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and called for broader stakeholder support to sustain the momentum against galamsey.
By Peter Quao Adattor
