The fight against illegal mining in the Akyemansa District of the Eastern Region has intensified under the leadership of District Chief Executive (DCE) Linda Ahenkora, who has described galamsey operators as her “worst enemies.”
Since assuming office, DCE Ahenkora has spearheaded the Akyemansa Anti-Galamsey Taskforce, which she leads personally. The taskforce has seized over 300 changfang and pumping machines, 105 boats, and other mining equipment, and arrested more than 50 individuals involved in illegal mining activities.
Speaking to the media, DCE Ahenkora warned illegal miners to desist from polluting water bodies, emphasizing that the Assembly will not relent in protecting the environment.
“We will continue to fight until our rivers, farmlands, and communities are safe from the destructive effects of galamsey,” she said.
The taskforce operates in close collaboration with security agencies, including the Police, Blue Water Guards, and Niamos, achieving what the DCE rates as a 65% success rate in combating illegal mining.
George Gyasi, Operations Commander for Blue Water Guards in the district, confirmed that operations began officially on January 5, focusing on safeguarding water bodies along the Prah and Birim rivers.
He dismissed claims that confiscated equipment was returned to miners and reiterated the warning that violators will face consequences.
With these efforts, the Akyemansa District is positioning itself as a frontline in the battle against galamsey, aiming to curb environmental destruction and promote sustainable development in the region.
