Ghana's Nationwide Crackdown on Illegal Mining Yields 30 Arrests

Ghana Cracks Down on Illegal Mining: Thirty Suspects Arrested in Nationwide Raids June 1, 2025 - A major anti-galamsey operation in Ghana has led to the arrest of thirty suspects involved in illegal mining activities. The operation, coordinated by the Inspector General of Police, targeted known galamsey hotspots across the Western, Ashanti, and Central regions. Raids resulted in the seizure of over 135 Changfa machines and excavators. "For some time now, we've been raising issues with mining in settlements and various towns," stated Erastus Asare Donkor, an environmental journalist interviewed in the report. "This week, the IGP ordered a series of raids." The raids took place in areas such as Wassa Japppa, Akrokerri, and Kuniso near Tarkwa. In one instance, thirteen suspects were arrested in Kuniso and remanded by the Tarkwa Circuit Court. The operation also uncovered illegal mining operations dangerously close to schools and homes, disrupting teaching and learning. The successful operation demonstrates a strong commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting communities from its harmful effects. The arrests and seizures send a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated.