Police Arrest Seven Illegal Miners at Chiantanga in Upper West Region
In a daring move against illegal mining activities, the Upper West Regional Police Command has apprehended seven individuals engaged in illegal mining activities along the Black Volta River at Chiantanga, a Wa West District community. The suspects were apprehended on Thursday, April 10, 2025, in a collaborative effort to bring an end to the environmental degradation caused by such illegal activities.
Details of the Arrest
The suspects, which include Sabugu Razak, Ibrahim Zuberu, Alex Amedzake, John Cobblah, Promise Dufe, Angelina Akpese, and Rebecca Tumawu, were found to be operating without licenses. Ten Changfang machines, also used extensively in alluvial gold mining, were confiscated during the exercise, a glimpse of how large the illegal operations are in the area.
In addition to the mining machinery, the authorities confiscated two unregistered tricycles (Apsonic and PNE models), two registered motorbikes whose registration numbers were M-24-NR 6010 and M-23-UW 4413, and two unregistered motorcycles (Haojue and Apsonic). The fact that there were six student mattresses on site shows that the individuals were residing there, a sign of the organized nature of the operation.
Environmental Impact and Community Concerns
Illegal mining, popularly referred to as "galamsey," has severe environmental effects on Ghana's environment, particularly on key water bodies like the Black Volta River. The unregulated extraction practices lead to pollution, deforestation, and destruction of aquatic habitats, which have adverse effects on the livelihoods of communities depending on these natural resources.
The Black Volta River is a vital source of water for most communities in the Upper West Region. The pollution caused by illegal mining not only poses a danger to the environment but also threatens the health and well-being of local communities that utilize the river for domestic purposes, agriculture, and fishing.
Law Enforcement and Legal Proceedings
The arrested suspects are currently in police custody, assisting in the ongoing investigations. The police have indicated that the suspects will be charged and arraigned before the court within the next few days. The Upper West Regional Police Command, led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Nii Danto Offei Lomotey, has reasserted its commitment to enhancing efforts at bringing an end to illegal mining operations in the region.
Wider Implications and Government Response
The issue of illegal mining remains an overriding concern in Ghana with its multiple implications for environmental sustainability, public health, and economic stability. Continuing government initiatives to combat galamsey include the deployment of security forces to operational sites, enhanced regulation, and community outreach programs aimed at imposing sustainable mining methods.
This recent action in Chiantanga highlights the need for sustained vigil and concerted efforts among law enforcement agencies, the local people, and the government to safeguard the country's natural resources and promote the welfare of the people.
Conclusion
The arrest of the seven individuals operating illegal mining activities at Chiantanga is a milestone in the fight against environmental degradation in the Upper West Region. It serves to highlight the necessity for combined enforcement action and sensitization at the community level to address the issues arising from unregulated mining activities. The resolve of the authorities to prosecute the offenders is a warning signal to others and serves to emphasize the necessity of safeguarding Ghana's natural heritage for generations to come.
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Police Arrest Seven Illegal Miners at Chiantanga in Upper West Region
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