A task force from the National Association of Small Scale Miners conducted a major operation on the River Mankraso in the Ahafo Ano South West District on Wednesday, September 11, targeting illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.
During the raid, the task force seized several items used by illicit miners. When the miners spotted the task force, they fled the scene, leaving their machinery and tools on the riverbed.
With no one to arrest, the task team opted to destroy the mining machinery that remained behind. The equipment discovered in the river, including dredging machines, was set ablaze.
Other things, including water pumps, motors, and tanks, were confiscated as evidence.
According to a spokesperson for the Small Scale Miners Association, the task force is dedicated to stepping up efforts to combat galamsey, particularly operations that damage river bodies.
They stressed that the group will not accept unlawful mining that harms the environment.
The group restated its commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and promised to continue fighting unlawful mining to protect the environment for future generations.