Tarkwa: Some 12 individuals suspected to be illegal miners have been arrested in connection with the destruction of a section of the railway line linking Takoradi to Nsuta through Akyem in the Western Region. They are to appear before the Tarkwa Circuit Court on October 7, 2025.
According to Ghana News Agency, the suspects-Denis Adom, Alex Kofi Acquah, Kwame Simon, Isaac Arhin, Larry Koku, Lambon Moysi, Ali Asoma, Nurudeen Kobina, Jude Azumah, Yendari Bonber, Jonathan Ayandor, and Daniel Combat-are all residents of Akyem. Their arrest followed the circulation of a viral video showing extensive damage to the railway lines due to illegal mining activities.
Illegal miners reportedly dug out the entire foundation beneath the railway bridge, stripping away all the soil and leaving the metal rails suspended in mid-air. A section of the railway line had also been removed, with the embankment collapsing into the water.
Mr. Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, led a team to conduct an on-site inspection to evaluate the situation. He commended the Tarkwa Nsuaem Police for arresting the 12 suspects and expressed his intention to follow the case to its logical conclusion. He emphasized the need for police to be more proactive, stating that the issue is not just about flushing out illegal miners, as they tend to return.
Mr. Nelson highlighted the critical importance of the railway line for Ghana’s manganese exports, which face severe threats from illegal mining. He called on traditional leaders to take control of their communities to prevent further destruction of national infrastructure. Additionally, he warned residents of Akyem community to desist from engaging in illegal mining, asserting that the law would deal with anyone found culpable of such activities.