The Mpohor-Fiase District Assembly has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining following the arrest of 26 suspected illegal miners during an intelligence-led security operation across the district.
The operation, led by the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Sophia Aubyn, targeted about 10 illegal mining sites and involved a joint anti-illegal mining taskforce made up of personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana National Fire Service, the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) and River Guards.
Several suspected illegal miners reportedly fled their sites upon spotting the security personnel. However, 26 suspects were apprehended at different locations during the operation.
The taskforce also seized a number of items allegedly being used for illegal mining activities, including 14 pumping machines, eight motorbikes and two fuel gallons, among other exhibits.
The suspects have since been transferred to the Sekondi Central Police Station to assist with investigations and for the commencement of the appropriate legal processes.
District taskforce strengthened
Briefing members of the taskforce ahead of the operation, DCE Sophia Aubyn said the District Security Committee (DISEC) had taken a decision to strengthen local enforcement by increasing the number of personnel assigned to the district’s anti-illegal mining taskforce.
She explained that while the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) continues to undertake operations across the country, its nationwide mandate makes it challenging to maintain a permanent operational presence in every district.
“The district taskforce has therefore been established to complement the work of NAIMOS by ensuring sustained surveillance and enforcement across the Mpohor-Fiase District,” she said.
According to the DCE, the strengthened taskforce would rely on intelligence-led, strategic and coordinated operations to disrupt illegal mining activities and protect the district’s natural resources.
She said the Assembly remained committed to working with the security agencies to ensure that illegal mining activities did not undermine the environment, water bodies and the livelihoods of communities.
Assembly pledges logistical support
The District Coordinating Director, Mr. Alhassan Sullemana, assured members of the taskforce of the Assembly’s commitment to providing the logistical support required to enhance their effectiveness.
He said sustained collaboration among the Assembly, security agencies and local stakeholders would be critical to maintaining pressure on illegal mining operators and ensuring that enforcement efforts translated into lasting results.
The latest operation forms part of the Mpohor-Fiase District Assembly’s renewed efforts to support the national fight against illegal mining, protect the district’s natural resources and promote environmentally responsible and sustainable development.
