Thirteen excavators have been seized and multiple suspects, including a Chinese national, have been arrested during an anti-galamsey operation conducted by a government task force in the Adansi Asokwa District of the Ashanti Region. The operation was led by Captain (Rtd) John Kwame Jabari, the Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator.
Captain Jabari stated that this urgent action was prompted by the alarming destruction of cocoa farms and forest reserves, which threatens Ghana’s agricultural future. "We have seized 13 excavators and are taking steps to prosecute those responsible," he confirmed in an interview with journalists. "We’ve seen too many cocoa farms destroyed, and this issue is reducing cocoa production in the country."
The three-month operation, described as highly effective, was made possible through collaboration with local residents. "I’m very appreciative of the support we’ve received from the people in this region. Almost everyone joined us to provide information," he noted. However, he expressed concern about the increasing encroachment on protected lands and farmlands by illegal miners.
"We have already dealt with operations in forest reserves and are now focusing on those destroying cocoa farms. If this continues, the future of Ghana’s cocoa industry is at risk," he cautioned. He emphasized that the scale of destruction led the task force to involve local police and call for more public support. "Citizens came forward to tell us what these people are doing. That was when we knew it was time to act decisively."
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Captain Jabari pointed out that the government is not against mining but insists that it must be done responsibly. "This government is not opposed to responsible mining. If you want to mine, do it the right way. Stay away from cocoa farms and forest reserves," he stressed. He mentioned that the task force had to adapt its strategy multiple times for greater effectiveness. "We’ve changed our operational model several times. This time, I believe we’ve perfected it."
He revealed that some mining operations visited by the task force were engaging in land reclamation, which is a positive example that others should follow. "We’ve seen some mines where they are replenishing the land after mining. That’s the kind of responsible mining we want to encourage."
The task force handed all the suspects over to the police for prosecution and is dismantling any remaining illegal operations in the district. "This is not just about arrests; it’s about setting an example. We must stop those who are destroying our lands," he stated.
He warned all involved in illegal mining: "If you are part of this galamsey menace, stop now and engage in responsible mining. If you do that, you won’t have any problems at all. That’s our message."
This initiative is part of the government's nationwide fight against illegal mining, aimed at preserving the country’s natural resources and sustaining key agricultural sectors like cocoa farming. He concluded that the task force will not allow illegal miners to operate until they cease their activities.
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