In a sweeping crackdown on illegal mining settlements, the Western Regional Manager of the Forestry Commission, Nana Poku Bosompim, has confirmed the complete demolition of major galamsey slums that had become hotspots for unlawful activities. This bold action took place in strategic locations, including Abrewa Ne Nkran, Jerusalem, and another site near Wassa Nkran, all of which were identified as safe havens for illegal miners. The successful operation was carried out with military backing, marking a strong message to those engaged in the illegal mining trade.
According to Mr. Bosompim, who has held the position for just two months, the action was a top priority upon assuming office. He revealed that the camps had long posed a threat to the surrounding forest reserves and had already been subjected to multiple raids in the past. Unfortunately, each time the slums were cleared, the occupants found a way to return and rebuild, even stronger than before. Determined to break this cycle, the Regional Manager assembled a team in collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces to completely dismantle the camps.
The recent operation took place on Monday and was hailed as a major success. Mr. Bosompim stated that the demolition wasn’t limited to one site. The initial camp, Abrewa Ne Nkran, was quickly followed by a much larger settlement known as Jerusalem, and then a third camp was discovered near Wassa Nkran. He confirmed that all three slums have now been reduced to rubble and currently lie in desolate ruins.
What raised further concern, however, was the level of sophistication the miners had reached. Bosompim noted that following the demolition, his team observed attempts to rebuild—this time using concrete and cement blocks instead of wood. This indicated a renewed determination by the illegal miners to reclaim the area. Even more troubling was the fact that these slums had attracted people not only from Ghana but from across at least eight West African countries, making it a regional problem.
The Forestry Commission is now focused on preventing any resurgence. Mr. Bosompim emphasised that regular patrols and improved surveillance strategies have been introduced to stop illegal miners from returning. His words carried a tone of firm resolve as he stated, “We’re not going to let this happen again. The goal is to ensure these camps are never rebuilt.”
This latest development is a significant milestone in the fight against galamsey and highlights the growing coordination between government institutions and the military in protecting Ghana’s natural resources. The scale of the operation and the determination of the illegal miners reveal the complex and ongoing challenge authorities face in dealing with this issue. Nevertheless, the Forestry Commission's renewed commitment signals hope for lasting change in the Western Region’s forest reserves.
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