The Eastern South Regional Police Command in the Eastern Region has made significant strides in combating illegal mining, arresting eleven suspects linked to illicit activities in the Akyem Fichser community near Bunsu.
The operation, conducted by the Eastern South Regional Police Command, was based on a tip-off regarding the destructive impact of illegal miners on local tree plantations.
The arrested individuals include nine Ghanaian nationals: Kwaku Owusu (42), Philip Tetteh (52), Abdul Raham (27), Philip Duvor (40), Joseph Asare (32), Charles Manu (35), Joseph Araboga (32), Daniel Bangah (20), and Amoaho Isaac (25). Two Burkinabe nationals, Jey Done (40) and Adoma Aboubakar (25), were also among those taken into custody.
Authorities reported that the illegal mining activities had caused significant damage to tree plantations in the Fichser area, raising concerns about the long-term environmental impact.
In addition to the arrests, police seized an excavator from the scene, which is now being held as evidence.
The eleven suspects are currently in detention and are being prepared for court proceedings.
Speaking to the media in Kyebi, the Eastern South Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Ohene Boadi Bossman, reaffirmed the police service’s commitment to combating crime and maintaining law and order in the region.
DCOP Ohene Boadi Bossman assured the public, particularly those in the Eastern South region, that the police remain dedicated to tackling illegal activities and ensuring the safety and security of local communities.
This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by Ghanaian authorities to combat illegal mining, which continues to threaten the environment and local communities.
The police have expressed their determination to pursue these cases vigorously in order to deter further illicit activities.
