Ellembelle: An Anti-galamsey task force set up by the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Ellembelle has arrested 11 illegal mining suspects at Mile 3 near Teleku-Bokazo. The suspects, comprising two Chinese nationals and nine Ghanaians, were reportedly posing as National Security operatives.
According to Ghana News Agency, the operation was conducted by a team from the District Police Command in collaboration with a task force established by the DCE. This initiative is part of a broader national campaign against illegal mining activities spearheaded by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
Mr. Joseph Agyekum, the District Chief Executive, emphasized the district's zero-tolerance policy towards illegal mining. He stated that the district aims to be a hub for responsible mining and will actively work to eliminate illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey. He insisted that efforts to curb this ongoing issue would be thorough and independent of external pressures.
The DCE highlighted the operation as a testament to the district's commitment to enforcing mining regulations and protecting the environment. He noted that the arrest serves as a strong warning to those engaged in illegal mining activities, with the suspects expected to face prosecution.
Furthermore, the DCE assured that the District Assembly would maintain its collaboration with security agencies to ensure adherence to mining regulations. During the operation, the task force seized four excavators and other rifles from the illegal mining site, which was subsequently set ablaze.
