A coordinated operation spearheaded by the Bono Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has led to the dismantling of a sprawling and notorious illegal mining enclave known locally as “Operator,” located in the Sugbukrom area of the Banda District. This high-profile action marks a significant escalation in the government’s ongoing campaign to eradicate illegal mining—commonly referred to as ‘galamsey’—in the region.
The operation, which was carried out by a joint military and police anti-illegal mining task force, lasted over ten hours and resulted in the seizure of several pieces of heavy-duty equipment, the demolition of numerous unauthorized structures, and the arrest of multiple suspects involved in the unlawful activity.
According to EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz correspondents on the ground, the task force comprised over 100 personnel drawn from the 3rd Infantry Battalion of the Ghana Armed Forces and officers of the Ghana Police Service. Under the direct supervision of the Regional Minister, the team launched a full-scale assault on the settlement, which had been a stronghold for illegal mining operations along the Tain River.
Heavy Equipment Seized, Illegal Infrastructure Razed
During the well-coordinated raid, authorities confiscated 11 excavators, 16 motorbikes, and an unspecified number of additional motorbikes suspected to have been used in mining activities. Changfang machines—rudimentary dredging devices often used in riverbed mining—were also discovered and destroyed at various points along the riverbank.
All structures serving as accommodation, storage, and trading posts for the over 2,000 illegal miners were either demolished or set ablaze. The intention, according to officials, was to completely disband the settlement and render it uninhabitable for future illegal mining activity.
This bold move is being hailed as one of the most aggressive anti-galamsey operations undertaken in the Bono Region in recent years.
Minister Vows Sustained Pressure on Illegal Miners
Speaking to EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz, Regional Minister Hon. Joseph Addae Akwaboa explained that the crackdown is not an isolated intervention but part of a comprehensive and ongoing strategy aimed at restoring the region’s degraded ecosystems and protecting water bodies from further contamination.
“We will not relent in this fight,” he declared. “A detailed report will be compiled and submitted to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. Once we receive approval, we will immediately begin the reclamation of lands that have been destroyed by these illegal activities. This will be done in accordance with strict ministerial guidelines.”
He further stressed that this initiative would be implemented on a weekly basis, sending a clear message to illegal miners across the region: the era of galamsey impunity is over.
“We are coming after them. Every week. We’re going to make galamsey a very risky and uncomfortable venture in this region,” he asserted with conviction.
Restoration Plans Underway
The Minister elaborated that once authorization is secured from the relevant ministries, the government would commence environmental restoration projects. These will involve not only land reclamation but also the rehabilitation of polluted water bodies and the implementation of sustainable land-use plans to prevent future degradation.
“Once we get the green light, the reclamation will start. We will follow all the modalities they provide. This is not just about enforcement—it is about restoring hope and protecting livelihoods for future generations,” he emphasized.
Human Cost and Collateral Damage
While the operation primarily targeted illegal mining operations, it did have ripple effects on some innocent bystanders, including local business owners operating at the fringes of the galamsey site. Among them was Madam Abiba, a small-scale trader and single mother of four from Techiman. She lamented the destruction of her makeshift shop, which had served as her family’s sole source of income for over five years.
“This was my only source of income. I understand the need to stop galamsey, but I don’t know how I will take care of my children now,” she tearfully told EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz.
Her story underscores the complex socio-economic dimensions of the galamsey crisis—one that not only affects the environment but also communities caught in the crossfire of enforcement efforts.
Stern Warning to Illegal Operators
In his concluding remarks, the Regional Minister issued a direct and uncompromising warning to all illegal miners and their collaborators. He urged them to abandon their activities immediately and leave protected forest areas for their own safety and the sake of national interest.
“This is a matter of life, law, and legacy. We cannot allow a few individuals to destroy our environment and pollute our water sources for quick profits. Anyone found in breach of the law will be dealt with accordingly,” he said.
Public Urged to Support Anti-Galamsey Campaign
The authorities are calling on members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or illegal mining activity to the relevant agencies. As the government intensifies its efforts to combat environmental destruction, community cooperation is being recognized as a vital component of long-term success.
With the Regional Minister pledging sustained weekly operations, many are hopeful that this renewed approach will finally turn the tide against illegal mining in the Bono Region. However, the task ahead remains daunting, as the fight against galamsey continues to challenge national institutions, community norms, and economic realities.
For more updates on this developing story and other regional news, stay tuned to EASTERN FM 105.1 MHz.
STORY BY: KENNEDY AMPONSAH NTI
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ
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