Col. Eric Tenadu, Commander of the Operation Halt Task Force, has announced that military personnel will remain stationed around the Birim River and other targeted areas for the next two weeks as part of the first phase of the operation against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
In an interview with Citi News’ Fred Duhoe, Col. Tenadu emphasized the operation’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s water bodies, declaring, “We are launching this operation to make sure that we clear our water bodies. Whether registered or unregistered, we don’t care; our concern is the water body. So far as you are close to the water body, you are our target.”
The operation aims to significantly improve the condition of the water bodies that have been severely affected by galamsey activities.
“We are confident that the water bodies will start to regain their natural state,” Col. Tenadu added, highlighting the urgent need for restoration of these vital resources.
The launch of Operation Halt follows mounting public pressure, fueled by consistent media coverage and advocacy from various civil society organizations (CSOs) demanding urgent government intervention.
The ongoing environmental devastation caused by illegal mining has prompted calls for more stringent enforcement measures to protect Ghana’s natural resources.
In response to this pressure, the government has deployed additional military forces to tackle the illegal mining crisis, beginning with hotspots in the Eastern Region. The initial focus of the operation was at Anyinam, in the Atiwa East District, a known hub for illegal mining activities.
The presence of military personnel during this two-week operation aims not only to halt ongoing illegal mining activities but also to prevent miners from resuming operations. In a show of force, the military, in collaboration with the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, has intensified efforts to combat illegal mining on water bodies, marking a crucial step in the government’s broader strategy to protect the environment.
As part of this operation, three chanfan machines—commonly used for illegal gold extraction—along with other industrial equipment, were seized and burned on the banks of the Birim River.
This destruction of illegal mining equipment signifies a proactive approach to curbing environmental degradation and restoring the river’s health.
While reports suggest that some miners fled the area after receiving a tip-off prior to the task force’s arrival, the operation is expected to continue until substantial progress is made in restoring the Birim River and other affected water bodies.
The collaboration between the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners and the military is viewed as a critical measure in addressing the illegal mining menace, which has severely impacted the country’s ecosystems and water resources.
As the operation unfolds, the effectiveness of these interventions will be closely monitored by the public and environmental advocates alike.
