Minerals Development Fund Rescues Atatam D/A School as 4 Chinese Nationals Arrested for Illegal Mining
The Minerals Development Fund (MDF) has intensified its efforts to combat illegal mining, launching a significant crackdown on mining sites operating dangerously close to Atetemu Basic School in the Ashanti Region.
During the operation, nine excavators and several water pumping machines were seized. Authorities also arrested five individuals, including four Chinese nationals believed to be involved in the illegal mining activities.
The Atatam D/A Basic School, which comprises a Kindergarten, Primary, and Junior High School, is under serious threat. A road separates the Kindergarten and JHS blocks, but learning has been severely disrupted as excavators operate just behind the school compound. On the day of the operation, teaching activities were brought to a standstill due to the proximity and noise of the mining machines.
Teachers have reported instances where illegal miners allegedly threatened to demolish the school to access gold deposits. “We fear for the safety of our students,” said a teacher who wished to remain anonymous.
A concerned parent, Ama Konadu, voiced her frustration. “I have a 13-year-old son here. They dug dangerously close to the school, and we had to resist them with everything we had. They’re still working nearby, and it’s frightening.”
Aerial observations revealed vast stretches of land around Atatam ravaged by illegal mining, with the Jimi and Subri Rivers polluted due to the destructive activities. The environmental degradation has affected farming, leaving many families without their primary source of income.
Nana Kofi Sarfo Kantanka, a local leader, lamented, “They’ve destroyed our farmlands. Some of us can’t even grow food anymore. How are we supposed to feed our families?”
The Chinese suspects initially fled upon realizing the presence of the task force but were later tracked to a hideout, where weapons and ammunition were also retrieved.
Dr. Hannah Bissiw, Administrator of the Minerals Development Fund, who led the team, expressed dismay at the destruction caused. “What we’ve witnessed here is heartbreaking. Our children can’t even access education because illegal miners have taken over,” she said. “As someone who grew up in a village, I understand how vital education is. We must protect these children.”
Dr. Bissiw also revealed that she has received threats due to the crackdown but remains resolute. “I am not afraid. We will continue to fight this menace for the sake of our future generations.”
