Wassa Gyapa: 13 arrested for illegal mining; over 120 changfang machines destroyed
The Western Central Regional Police Command has arrested 13 individuals for engaging in illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, at Wassa Gyapa in the Western Region.
As part of an anti-galamsey operation in the Western Region, the police conducted a raid on May 19, during which they disabled over 120 changfang machines, which were being used for illegal mining operations.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Nana Ampadu, Stephen Tetteh, Yaw Dalame, Samuel Amoah, Kwame Oppong, Francis Oduom, Owusu Asare, Atta Kwame, Apiyanga Emmanuel, Kojo Montanakito, Maxwell Owusu, Obofo Vincent, and Soogal Fataw.
In addition to the dismantled machines, six motorbikes were retrieved from the illegal mining site.
The suspects are expected to appear before the Tarkwa Circuit Court today, Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to combating illegal mining, which continues to pose a significant threat to the country’s environment and water bodies.
