The fight against illegal mining in the Sefwi Wiawso municipality of the Western North region has seen another breakthrough as five persons have been arrested at Bedii during a special operation.
The Wiawso Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Dominic Gyasi, who led the operation and described the suspects as “nation wreckers,” says they were caught actively engaging in galamsey activities that threaten the environment and water bodies in the area.
The arrests followed credible intelligence received by the MCE, who swiftly deployed his Blue Water Guards to monitor the situation.
On their second surveillance, the guards confirmed the illegal activity and alerted the MCE. Together with his entourage, Mr. Gyasi moved to the site to carry out the operation.
Some of the miners managed to escape upon arrival of the team, but five were successfully apprehended.
Their tools and equipment were seized, while those too large to transport were destroyed and burnt to prevent further use. The arrested suspects are currently in police custody.
Investigations during the operation revealed troubling allegations that some security officers, including soldiers and police, were receiving payments from the illegal miners in exchange for protection.
This revelation has heightened concerns about corruption and complicity within the fight against galamsey.
The MCE has vowed that such compromises will not be tolerated, stressing that those aiding galamsey operators will be exposed and sanctioned.
He emphasized that the activities of illegal miners do not only pollute water bodies but also destroy farmlands and threaten the future of the municipality.
Currently, the five suspects are assisting police with investigations as authorities work to identify and apprehend their financiers and collaborators. The operation is expected to continue until all parties behind the illegal activity are brought to justice.
Mr. Gyasi reiterated that the battle against galamsey is a collective responsibility, calling on residents of Sefwi Wiawso to support the ongoing efforts. He urged the public to rise together and say no to galamsey to safeguard the environment and protect the future of generations to come.
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