Thirteen (13) excavators have been seized and multiple suspects including Chinese national has been picked up in anti-galamsey operation conducted by a government task force in the Adansi Asokwa District of the Ashanti region.
The operation was led by the Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, Captain (Rtd) John Kwame Jabari.
He said the urgent action was prompted by the alarming destruction of cocoa farms and forest reserves, which threaten Ghana’s agricultural future.
“We have seized 13 excavators and are taking steps to prosecute those responsible,” Captain Jabari confirmed in an interview with journalists.
“We’ve seen too many cocoa farms destroyed, and this menace is reducing cocoa production in the country.”
The three-month operation, described as highly effective, was made possible through collaboration with local residents.
“I’m very appreciative of the support we’ve received from the people in this region. Almost everyone joined us to provide information,” he stated.
He was not happy about the increasing encroachment on protected lands and farmlands by illegal miners.
“We have already dealt with operations in forest reserves and are now focusing on those destroying cocoa farms. If this continues, the future of Ghana’s cocoa industry is at risk,” he cautioned.
He stressed on how the scale of destruction pushed the task force to involve local police and call for more public support. “Citizens came forward to tell us what these people are doing. That was when we knew it was time to act decisively.”
He pointed out that the government is not against mining, but insists it must be done responsibly. “This government is not against responsible mining. If you want to mine, do it the right way. Stay away from cocoa farms and forest reserves,” he stressed.
He observed that the task force had to adapt its strategy multiple times for greater effectiveness. “We’ve changed our operational model a number of times. This time, I believe we’ve perfected it,” he said.
He revealed that some mining operations visited by the taskforce were engaging in land reclamation, a positive example that others should follow.
“We’ve seen some mines where they are replenishing the land after mining. That’s the kind of responsible mining we want to encourage.”
The task force handed all the suspects to police for prosecution and dismantle any remaining illegal operations in the district. “This is not just about arrests. It’s about setting an example. We must stop those destroying our lands.”
He warned all involved in illegal mining: “If you are part of this galamsey menace, stop now and engage in responsible mining. If you do that, you won’t have any problems at all. That’s our message.”
The exercise is part of the government’s nationwide fight against illegal mining, aimed at preserving the country’s natural resources and sustaining key agricultural sectors like cocoa farming.
He continued that the taskforce will not allow the illegal miners to rest until they stop their activities.
The post Anti-galamsey taskforce seizes 13 excavators in Ashanti Region first appeared on 3News.
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