- 4 arrested for galamsey in Subri Forest Reserve
- Illegal mining equipment seized and destroyed
- 1.5 hectares of forest reserve damaged
- Government faces pressure to address galamsey's environmental and social impacts
Four individuals, Emmanuel Adawusu, Shadrack Yowson, Innusah Yussif, and Issah Seidu, aged 23 to 40, have been arrested for engaging in illegal mining, also known as “galamsey,” in Ghana’s Western Region. They were caught in the Subri Forest Reserve by the Rapid Response Team of the Forestry Commission during a targeted operation.
The suspects are currently in police custody, facing charges of illegal possession of firearms after authorities seized five pump-action guns and 77 cartridges. Four excavators used by the illegal miners were also confiscated and destroyed to prevent further operations.
According to Mr. Theodore Banodyele, District Manager of the Forestry Services Division in Takoradi, the suspects were armed and guarding the excavators but attempted to escape when law enforcement intervened.
The operation revealed extensive damage to the Subri Forest Reserve, with 1.5 hectares of land destroyed by illegal mining activities. The Forestry Commission is committed to reclaiming the damaged land and replanting trees to protect the forest.
Mr. Banodyele warned illegal miners to cease their harmful activities, stating, “The FC is always ready and will do everything possible to protect our forest reserves.” He emphasized that illegal mining contributes to environmental degradation and hinders economic progress.
Ghana has been struggling with the severe consequences of illegal mining, including destroyed forest reserves, contaminated water bodies, and soil degradation.
The initiative highlighted the urgent need to address environmental and social impacts, urging the government to adopt stricter measures to combat the growing menace.
The use of chemicals like mercury in mining has poisoned rivers, causing deforestation, air pollution, increased crime rates, and threatening local communities.
The Forestry Commission’s efforts and campaigns like “I Stand Against Galamsey” aim to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure a sustainable future.
