Military Cracks Down on Illegal Miners, Destroys 18 Chanfans and Other Equipment
In a decisive action to curb illegal mining, commonly known as "galamsey," the Ghana Armed Forces conducted a major operation that led to the destruction of 18 chanfans and other equipment used in the illegal mining sector. The operation, aimed at preserving the nation's water bodies and environment, reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to fighting the menace of galamsey.
The swoop took place in the early hours of Thursday in a highly targeted effort that spanned several districts notorious for illegal mining activities. Backed by intelligence reports and surveillance, the military deployed special task forces equipped to dismantle and destroy any mining equipment found in operation illegally. By the end of the mission, not only had 18 chanfans been destroyed, but other machinery and tools critical to the illicit mining process were also rendered unusable.
Chanfans, a type of equipment commonly used by illegal miners, are notorious for their destructive impact on river systems. These machines churn up river beds to extract gold, leaving behind heavily polluted and muddy water that affects aquatic life and the local communities that rely on these water sources for their livelihood. Beyond environmental damage, illegal mining also poses a significant threat to public health, as chemicals like mercury are frequently used, contaminating rivers and soils.
Lieutenant Colonel Kwame Boateng, the officer in charge of the operation, emphasized the military’s commitment to enforcing anti-galamsey policies. "This is a national security issue as much as it is an environmental one. We are here to enforce the law and protect Ghana’s natural resources for future generations," he said during a press briefing after the mission.
The exercise faced minimal resistance from local illegal miners, largely due to the element of surprise and the scale of the military’s presence. However, reports indicate that some miners were able to escape into the dense forest cover, leaving their equipment behind. Efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend these individuals, as the military plans to hand over the cases to civil authorities for prosecution.
The anti-galamsey task force has vowed to maintain its vigilance, announcing that similar operations will continue across regions where illegal mining is prevalent. The operation serves as a strong signal to illegal miners and their financiers that the government’s resolve to protect the environment is unwavering. As part of the broader strategy, authorities are also working on providing alternative livelihoods for those affected by the crackdown, to ensure sustainable development and discourage the reliance on illegal mining.
With this latest operation, the Ghanaian military has reiterated its commitment to protecting the nation’s environmental integrity, upholding the law, and ensuring that Ghana’s rich natural resources benefit its people responsibly and sustainably.
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