In an intelligence-led operation on Wednesday, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Kintampo North led a joint team of military and police personnel to arrest four individuals engaged in illegal mining on the Black Volta River.
The operation, which directly responded to the rampant pollution of the river, marks a significant step in the municipality’s fight against environmental degradation caused by illegal mining.
The MCE explained that the operation was initiated after intelligence revealed that a group of galamseyers was operating within the municipality’s jurisdiction.
“It has come to the realization of my municipality that there is a team of galamseyers here. We have realized they are actually polluting the Black Volta,” he stated.
He emphasized his commitment to making galamsey an ungovernable and unprofitable business.
“We are making sure that the galamsey business within the Kintampo North Municipality will be a lion’s den for these galamseyers. We are leaving no stone unturned,” he asserted.
During the raid, the team discovered and seized a significant amount of machinery used for the illegal activities. The MCE indicated that more equipment was located further along the river. He vowed that all the machinery would be destroyed to prevent its reuse and to deter others from engaging in similar activities.
The Black Volta, a critical water body, has long been a source of concern for local authorities due to widespread pollution from illegal mining.
The four arrested individuals are currently in police custody and are expected to be arraigned before court soon.
By: Belinda Tetteh
