Three suspected illegal miners have been arrested after a police operation targeting galamsey activities near a major Ghana Water Limited (GWL) transmission line in Effutu, a sub community in the Cape Coast Metropolis of the Central region.
The Central Regional Police Command carried out an intelligence-led raid following a complaint from GWL that illegal mining close to its main water transmission line threatened water quality, public health and the integrity of the supply serving Cape Coast and surrounding communities.
Addressing the press, Regional Police Command PRO, Chief Inspector Isaac Evans Ettie, noted that the illegal miners, upon sighting the police fled to nearby bushes, abandoning their mining equipment.
However, three of the suspects were arrested. They are: Eugene Oppong, 28; Paul Kumash, 30; and Amos Beyuo, 25, who are currently assisting with investigations.
Investigators recovered 19 water pumping machines linked to multiple water pits, four washing carpets used in mineral processing, seven cutlasses and a wheelbarrow including some heavy-duty equipment and temporary structures which could not be removed because of their location and condition. Police say they destroyed the items since they were immobilised, to prevent further use.
Chief Inspector Ettie indicated that the operation is part of a nationwide clampdown by the Ghana Police Service and other state agencies against illegal mining which continues to endanger the environment, water bodies and critical infrastructure.
The three suspects remain in custody while efforts continue to identify and arrest those who escaped the scene, with all recovered items retained as exhibits.
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