Security forces in the Western Region have arrested 56 individuals for their involvement in illegal mining activities in Kadadwen and surrounding areas within the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality. The operation, led by Brigadier-General (rtd) Musah Whajah, Liaison Officer of National Security, is part of the regional efforts to tackle illegal mining in the area.
The arrested individuals include 47 males and 9 females, and approximately 25 changfang machines, used for extracting and washing gold, were seized and destroyed. Additional equipment, including motorbikes, pumping machines, excavators, and pay-loaders, were also confiscated from sites in Ahanta West and the Mpohor District.
Brigadier-General Whajah emphasized the operation’s importance in addressing the environmental and social impacts of illegal mining. He assured that those found guilty would face legal action. A separate operation led to the arrest of eight illegal miners and the seizure of motorcycles and tricycles from the Subri Forest Reserve on March 12, 2025.
Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has urged Ghanaians to support the fight against illegal mining, highlighting its severe environmental consequences, including land degradation and pollution of water bodies.
