The Ghana Police Service has arrested 49 individuals in a major crackdown on illegal mining operations across several regions of the country, authorities announced.

The arrests, which form part of Ghana's intensified efforts to combat illegal mining—locally known as 'galamsey'—were conducted in multiple locations spanning four regions of the country.

In the Western Region, operations targeted the communities of Huniso, Wassa-Dadieso, and Wassa-Gyapa, where a significant number of suspects were apprehended. Additional arrests were made in Akrokerri in the Ashanti Region, as well as Dunkwa-On-Offin and Diaso in the Central Region.

The Eastern Region was also included in the sweep, with law enforcement focusing on illegal mining activities along the Awin River at Pankese and Akyem Akwadum.

Environmental Impact

Illegal mining has been a persistent environmental challenge in Ghana, causing widespread destruction to forest reserves and contamination of water bodies with chemicals such as mercury and cyanide used in gold extraction processes.

The government has repeatedly pledged to tackle the issue, which has devastated many rural communities and threatened Ghana's water security. Rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Birim—once sources of clean water—have been severely polluted by these activities.

This latest operation demonstrates the authorities' commitment to enforcing mining regulations and protecting the country's natural resources from further degradation.

While details regarding the specific charges against those arrested or the equipment seized during the operations have not been disclosed, illegal mining offenses in Ghana can carry significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

The Ghana Police Service has indicated that the crackdown will continue as part of broader national efforts to eradicate illegal mining activities throughout the country.