The Western Regional anti-galamsey task force has destroyed over 75 changfang machines, arresting four suspects, and retrieving two excavators on the Ankobra river.
This enforcement action supports the government’s Blue Water Initiative to protect water bodies.
However, the Western Regional Security Liaison Officer Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd.) recommends weekly patrols on the river to sustain the momentum.
The Ankobra River, once a pristine water source serving communities from Prestea to its mouth in the Nzema East Municipal of the Western Region, has sadly lost its pristine state due to the devastating impact of illegal mining over the years.
Despite efforts to crack down on illegal mining activities, the turbidity of the Ankobra River’s water continues to increase.
To investigate the rising water turbidity, the Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson mandated a patrol led by Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd.), with the Western Naval Command and support from the 2nd Infantry Battalion.
The seven-hour patrol on the Ankobra River revealed alarming activities: illegal miners were operating platforms with changfang machines, digging into the riverbed, and washing materials directly into the water.
The team also observed several river diversions and noted the widening of the riverbanks.
“We’ve discovered that illegal miners have diverted the Ankobra River’s course, using these altered waterways to facilitate their activities. This diversion and the resultant washing of mining materials into the river are primary causes of the river’s continued pollution.” He said.
Despite the rain, the team conducted a successful patrol on the Ankobra River, destroying over 75 changfang machines, arresting four suspects, and retrieving two excavators.
Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd.) called for weekly patrols to maintain pressure on illegal miners.
“In total, we destroyed around 75 changfang machines, seized two excavators, and arrested four suspects. This operation has been quite successful. I recommend regular patrols on the Ankobra River, at least weekly, to deter illegal mining activities.
We’re satisfied with the outcome and believe we’ve identified the root cause of the river’s degradation. We’ll continue patrolling upstream until we cover the entire stretch.” He added.
Addressing the logistical challenges, Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd.) urged authorities to enhance logistical support to effectively tackle the issue of illegal mining on the Ankobra River.
“While some logistical challenges have been addressed, enabling our patrol on the Ankobra River, we believe more needs to be done.
We hope authorities will meet our expectations soon, allowing us to tackle the issue of illegal mining more effectively. For now, we’re satisfied with the progress made.” He appealed.
