By Emmanuel Gamson
Mpohor (W/R), Aug. 13, GNA – The Mpohor-Fiase District Assembly in the Western Region has intensified its efforts to combat illegal mining (galamsey) activities by arresting some suspected illegal miners during an intelligence-led security operation.
The intelligence operation and arrests formed part of the Assembly’s renewed commitment to supporting the national fight against illegal mining and protecting the environment.
The operation was carried out by a joint anti-illegal mining taskforce comprising personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana National Fire Service, the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), River Guards, and spearheaded by Madam Sophia Aubyn, the District Chief Executive (DCE).
Briefing the taskforce before the operation, Madam Aubyn explained that the District Security Council (DISEC) had resolved to strengthen local enforcement by increasing the number of personnel assigned to the district taskforce.
She noted that although the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) continued to undertake nationwide operations, its broad mandate made it difficult to maintain a continuous presence in every district.
She stated that the district taskforce was, therefore, established to complement the work of the NAIMOS by ensuring sustained surveillance and enforcement across the Mpohor-Fiase District.
According to the DCE, the taskforce would undertake intelligence-led, strategic, and well-coordinated operations aimed at curbing illegal mining and protecting the district’s natural resources.
Mr Alhassan Sullemana, the Mpohor-Fiase District Coordinating Director, assured members of the taskforce of the Assembly’s commitment to providing the necessary logistical support to ensure the success of their operations.
During the operation, the taskforce successfully arrested some suspects at various illegal mining sites within the district, with several exhibits used in the activities also retrieved.
The suspects have been transferred to the Sekondi Central Police Station to assist with investigations and undergo the necessary legal processes.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Emmanuel Gamson
Reporter’s email address: [email protected]