The Central Regional Police Command has apprehended seven individuals for engaging in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” at Abora in the Upper Denkyira West District.
The arrests were made during an intelligence-led operation targeting an active illegal mining site in the area. According to police sources, the suspects were caught red-handed engaging in the unlawful activity. The individuals have been identified as Latif Abdul Gyimah, 55; Mohammed Bello, 44; George Azu, 52; Kingsley Owusu, 23; Sampson Afadzi, 45; Simon Atakpo, 21; and Andrews Otto, 26.
Illegal Mining Equipment and Weapons Seized in Police Operation
A significant cache of equipment and weapons was also retrieved during the operation. Items seized include one single-barrel shotgun, two pump-action shotguns (Mossberg 500A12GA) with serial numbers T069032 and T075882, and twenty-six live cartridges. In addition, two excavators, two Hyundai excavator monitors, three unregistered motorbikes, one unregistered Haojin tricycle, and a newly installed water pump machine were confiscated.
Police say efforts are currently underway to retrieve additional excavators believed to be hidden on the site.
All seven suspects are in police custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations. The recovered items have been placed in secure police custody as evidence.
Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to clamping down on illegal mining, which continues to pose a serious threat to Ghana’s environment and water bodies. The public has been urged to report suspicious mining activities to law enforcement agencies for swift action.
