In a joint operation, the Rapid Response Team of the Forestry Commission and the Ghana Police Service have arrested two Chinese nationals and two Ghanaians for engaging in illegal mining (galamsey) within the Tano-Anwia Forest Reserve in the Aowin Municipality. The March 20 raid followed investigative reports by JoyNews, which exposed ongoing illegal mining activities despite government efforts to combat galamsey.
During the operation, authorities seized two excavators and a pickup vehicle, which were being used for the illicit mining activities. The arrested individuals have since been taken into custody.
Illegal mining has been a major challenge in Ghana, causing severe deforestation, water pollution, and land degradation. The Tano-Anwia Forest Reserve, like many others, has been under threat from illegal miners who exploit the land for gold, often violating environmental laws and evading law enforcement.
This latest operation underscores the Ghanaian government’s intensified crackdown on galamsey, as authorities work to safeguard the country’s natural resources. It also highlights the role of investigative journalism in exposing illegal activities, prompting swift action from law enforcement agencies.
With the rise of galamsey operations across Ghana, this arrest serves as a warning to individuals and groups involved in illegal mining. The Forestry Commission and Ghana Police Service have reiterated their commitment to protecting the nation’s forests and ensuring strict enforcement of mining regulations.
