In a bold and strategic move to reinvigorate the fight against illegal mining in Ghana, the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has reshuffled senior police commanders stationed in galamsey-prone areas. This development signals a renewed energy from the Ghana Police Service in addressing the destructive activities of illegal miners that continue to pose serious threats to the environment and the livelihood of communities.
The reshuffle, described as the first phase of a broader police leadership overhaul, targets Divisional and District Commanders operating within the Eastern South, Western, and Western North Regions. These areas have long been considered hotspots for galamsey, with illicit mining operations damaging water bodies, forest reserves, and arable land.
A statement from the Police Service emphasised the need to inject fresh energy and reinforce accountability in the regions affected by illegal mining. The move aligns with the IGP’s earlier commitment to wage a sustained war against galamsey, reinforcing the Police Administration’s resolve to confront the issue head-on.
As part of the intensified crackdown, a specialised intelligence-led operation was launched on 17 April 2025 in the Samreboi enclave of the Western Region. The four-day mission proved highly successful, leading to the arrest of 47 individuals actively involved in illegal mining. Among those apprehended were 39 Ghanaians, eight Chinese nationals, and four women, all suspected to be deeply involved in operations along the Tano River and in forest reserves including Aboi, Subri, and Nimiri.
The law enforcement team also retrieved an array of equipment and items believed to have been used in the illegal activities. These included seventeen excavators, a bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, a Rav4, and eight pumping machines. In addition, a cache of weapons was seized, comprising four pump-action guns, a single-barrel gun, and fifty-four live BB cartridges.
The arrested suspects are currently in custody and are expected to face prosecution in accordance with the country’s laws. The Police Service has reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to ensuring that those who engage in illegal mining are brought to justice while protecting the nation’s natural resources from further degradation.
This coordinated effort reflects a growing synergy between intelligence and enforcement, underscoring a shift towards more proactive policing strategies. The reshuffling of commanders is not only aimed at improving operational efficiency but also ensuring that officers in charge are fully aligned with the national vision of eliminating illegal mining and its devastating consequences.
With more reshuffles anticipated in the coming weeks, the public has been urged to support the Police Service’s efforts in reporting suspicious activities and aiding investigations. The momentum built by these recent operations is expected to set the tone for a sustained national campaign against galamsey, bringing hope for the restoration of affected communities and ecosystems.
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