Galamseyers engage in gunfire exchange with police at Bonteso

A high-tension confrontation broke out on Wednesday morning when the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force came under violent attack during an operation to seize excavators engaged in illegal mining activities at Bonteso area.

According to an official police statement, the incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. during a routine patrol by the task force, which discovered an excavator actively destroying the environment through illegal mining in a pit.

As officers moved to impound the excavator, they were met with fierce resistance from a group of illegal miners, reportedly mobilised and incited by the local assemblyman, Patrick Asare.

The crowd began hurling stones and other objects at the officers while issuing open threats to prevent the removal of the machinery.

Tensions quickly escalated when two individuals were seen firing pump-action guns in the direction of the officers.

During the standoff, two police officers – ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil and G/Sgt. Agblekpe Mawuena Yao – sustained injuries to the head, mouth and leg.

The attackers further blocked all exit routes in an attempt to trap the task force within the area. The officers, facing imminent threat, were forced to respond with tactical force to neutralise the situation and secure their safety.

Despite the armed confrontation, the task force successfully arrested four individuals, including the assemblyman of the area.

The arrested suspects have been identified as: Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, Patrick Asare, assemblyman of the electoral area and Owusu Alexander.

One excavator was seized and safely transported to the Manso Adubia Police Station for custody. A second excavator, however, had to be left at the scene due to the immediate danger posed by the armed crowd.

Two community members also sustained injuries during the altercation. Police confirmed they were taken to a nearby medical facility and are currently receiving treatment.

The police emphasised that no further casualties were recorded on the side of law enforcement and the situation has since been brought under control.

In a statement, the task force described the incident as a clear indication of the increasing hostility and level of coordination among illegal mining operators. Authorities say future operations in the area will be conducted with heightened tactical preparedness and reinforcements.

The four suspects are expected to be transported to Accra for further interrogation and prosecution.

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