WASSA AKROPONG – In a significant move against illegal mining, also known as “galamsey,” Wassa Akropong Police conducted a major operation today, May 28, 2025, targeting a known hub for illicit mining activities in the Wassa-Dadieso enclaves.
Led by Wassa Akropong Police Commander, Chief Superintendent William Jabialu, a team comprising five Senior Police Officers and 73 other ranks embarked on the operation at approximately 8:00 AM. Their target: illegal miners operating perilously close to the Kumasi-Tarkwa highway, just 500 meters off the main road.
Upon reaching Wassa-Dadieso, notoriously identified as a hotbed for illegal mining, the police team encountered challenging terrain. Heavy mud rendered the area unmotorable, preventing police vehicles from getting close enough to completely surprise the miners. This unfortunately allowed many of the illegal operators to flee into their mining pits before arrests could be made.
Despite the difficult conditions, the operation resulted in the apprehension of six illegal miners: Eugene Mathew (20), Inusah Seidu (38), Jonathan Nyampong (27), Emmanuel Kakawe (19), Antwi Stephen (23), and Gideon Lar (25).
In addition to the arrests, the police team achieved a major victory in crippling the illegal mining infrastructure. Over 135 “chanfang” machines, commonly used in galamsey operations, were successfully incinerated on site. The team also confiscated one motorbike used by the illegal miners.
The operation concluded at 11:00 AM without any reported incidents or unusual occurrences, marking a successful effort in the ongoing fight against illegal mining in the region. Authorities affirm their commitment to continuing these operations to protect the environment and uphold the rule of law.
Sankofaonline
Poor raid. Intel should have been carried out to know the nature of the terrain before moving in and at 8 am most of the miners are already awake .!