In a decisive operation against illegal mining activities, the Kwaebibirim Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) has apprehended three Chinese nationals for engaging in galamsey along the Birim River, located in Ghana's Eastern Region. The raid, executed by a combined team of security personnel, marks another significant step in the ongoing fight to protect vital water bodies from environmental degradation.
The operation, which took place at Akyem Abaam, a community near Akyem Kade, was meticulously coordinated by the municipality’s anti-galamsey task force. Two heavy-duty excavators used in the illegal mining activities were seized during the swoop. The raid was personally overseen by the Kwaebibirim Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Emmanuel Kofi Nti, alongside the Municipal Police Commander, ASP Barlekor Bernard.
This latest crackdown comes amid growing concerns about the environmental damage caused by galamsey operations. The Ghana Health Service has highlighted the severe risks posed by such activities, including the pollution of major rivers like the Birim, which has been contaminated with hazardous levels of mercury, cyanide, and other heavy metals. A UNICEF report published in 2024 revealed that over 60% of water bodies in Ghana are polluted, with the Birim River identified as one of the most adversely affected.
MCE Emmanuel Kofi Nti confirmed that a manhunt is underway to track down several local accomplices who managed to evade capture during the raid. He issued a stern warning to illegal miners operating within the municipality, emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to ending galamsey.
“I am cautioning illegal miners operating within forest reserves and on water bodies in the municipality to immediately pack out as the team will stop at nothing to get them arrested and prosecuted,” Nti stated.
Ghana’s Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act (Act 995) outlines stringent penalties for illegal mining activities. Non-Ghanaians involved in galamsey face a minimum prison sentence of 20 years and a fine of up to 350,000 penalty units. Additionally, the law mandates the forfeiture of all equipment used in such operations, underscoring the government’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining.
The confiscation of the two excavators forms part of a broader national anti-galamsey campaign that has seen over 400 machines seized since early 2025. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to preserving Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring accountability for those engaged in environmental crimes.
This latest arrest serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect Ghana’s water bodies from further degradation. The government’s intensified efforts reflect its resolve to combat illegal mining and safeguard the health and livelihoods of communities dependent on these critical resources.
-Adomonline
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
