A group of illegal gold miners, including Chinese and Ghanaian nationals, have taken over a 261-acre portion of the Breman-Adomanya forest in the Wassa Amenfi West District, Western Region, causing severe environmental damage. Their activities have destroyed cocoa, timber, and rubber plantations while polluting the River Tano.
Despite police awareness, the miners continue operating. On February 23, they attacked Citi News’ Western Regional Correspondent, Akwasi Agyei Annim, as he documented the destruction. The miners, led by a man identified as Yaw Kurankyi, seized the journalist’s equipment, including his camera, microphone, and phone. Kurankyi allegedly blocked their exit and detained them until 7 PM, forcing them to delete their footage at the Asankrangwa Police Station before allowing them to leave.
Following the incident, police arrested Kurankyi, and statements were taken from the journalists. Frustrated residents, like Isaac Bekye, have criticized the lack of action from traditional leaders and law enforcement, saying those who oppose the illegal miners face threats. Bekye has called on the government and the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources to intervene and stop the destruction.
Meanwhile, the Asankrangwa Minerals Commission Officer, Clement Adzormah, refused to comment on the legality of the mining operations, referring all inquiries to the Commission’s headquarters in Accra.
