The illegal mining activity along the Konongo-Accra highway has been brought to a halt following intense media coverage and intervention by local authorities.
Residents, although relieved, are calling for a sustained plan to prevent the miners from returning to the site.
Ibrahim Abubakar, who initially reported on the illegal activity, revisited the site to assess the current situation.
The illegal mining activity was first reported on August 14, 2024, and was visible to motorists and passersby using the highway.
The Owerri river suffered severe pollution due to the mining activities, prompting concerns from residents and environmentalists.
The Asante Akim Central Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) clamped down on the miners a few days after the report.
Municipal Chief Executive Robert Yaw Kwakye explained that the initial intent was to dredge the Owerri river but it turned into illegal mining.
Kwakye assured that MUSEC is committed to ensuring the right thing is done and that the effort will help solve the issue.
Reclamation of the degraded land has begun, but residents are hoping for sustained monitoring to prevent the miners’ return.
The Municipal Chief Executive promised that the authorities will do everything possible to protect the area and prevent the miners from coming back.
