The Kwaebibirem Municipal Security Council has arrested three Chinese nationals for engaging in illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, along the Birim River at Akyem Abaam, a suburb of Akyem Kade in the Eastern Region.
The suspects were picked up during a joint swoop conducted by the anti-galamsey taskforce on Thursday. Two heavy-duty excavators, which were being used to mine along the riverbank, were impounded as part of the operation. The equipment has since been moved to a secured location under police custody.
The crackdown was led by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Emmanuel Kofi Nti, and the Municipal Police Commander, ASP Barlekor Bernard, in collaboration with members of the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC). The operation, according to officials, followed weeks of intelligence gathering and public complaints about the resurgence of illegal mining activities in the area.
Addressing the media after the arrests, Mr. Nti revealed that several local collaborators managed to escape during the raid. He assured residents that security agencies are pursuing the fugitives and will intensify monitoring to prevent further destruction of the river and nearby forest reserves.
He further cautioned individuals and groups involved in galamsey to abandon their operations immediately, warning that the taskforce will sustain its clampdown. “We will stop at nothing to arrest and prosecute offenders. Anyone destroying our water bodies and forests should pack out before it is too late,” he stated.
Illegal mining has long been a major concern in the Eastern Region, particularly along the Birim River, a vital source of water for communities and a tributary of the Pra River. The activity has led to widespread pollution, loss of aquatic life, and degradation of arable farmlands, threatening livelihoods and public health.
The latest arrest adds to ongoing efforts by government and security agencies to combat galamsey, which has been described as one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing Ghana.
