Security forces arrest 56 illegal miners in Western Region

On Thursday, March 13, fifty-six individuals were arrested and handed over to the Western Regional Police Command for their engagement in illegal mining activities in Kadadwen including neighboring areas the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality. The operation falls under a broader targeted strategy by the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to bring illegal mining to an end in the region. 

It was carried out together by personnel from the security services, under the direction of Musah Whajah, the Brigadier-General (rtd),  the Liaison Officer of National Security.The fifty-six individuals arrested comprised 47 males and nine females.

Additionally to the arrests made, the security forces seized about 25 changfang machines utilized for extraction and washing of gold and  destroyed as well.

Based on the information from Brigadier-General (rtd) Whajah, the operation marks a critical step in addressing illegal mining in the Western Region. Musah Whajah expressed that, the security forces precisely targeted illegal mining sites, including agricultural lands under the ownership of Ghana Rubber Estates Limited (GREL), Norpalm oil plantation, Kadadwen, and parts of the Mpohor District.

Musah Whajah further disclosed that 25 changfang machines and seized various equipment was successfully burned by the security forces, including three motorbikes, nine pumping machines, three excavators, and three pay-loaders from the Ahanta West Municipality and Mpohor District.

Bringing attention to the devastating impact of illegal mining, Brigadier-General (rtd) Musah Whajah confirmed that action would be handled by the Minister’s orders to control its growth in the region.

Brigadier-General, Musah Whajah declared that “We made some arrests during today’s operation. This time, we’re taking a different approach. The suspects will be screened by the police, and those found culpable will be put before the court.”

As part of a separate effort, a joint Rapid Response Team from the Tarkwa and Takoradi Forest Districts of the Forestry Commission on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, seized seven motorcycles, arrested eight illegal miners and three tricycles from the Subri Forest Reserve.

Due to that, Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, assured the public that the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) will investigate thoroughly to fight against illegal mining, warning of its devastating impact on the environment.