11 illegal miners arrested in Aowin Forest Reserve

Eleven people have been arrested for engaging in illegal mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region.

The arrests were made by the Blue Water Guard team during an operation near the Omanpe community on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

The team’s commander, Desmond Armoh, explained that the raid followed intelligence reports about ongoing mining in the protected forest.

With support from three Immigration officers, the operation targeted a site believed to host about 2,000 illegal miners. Eleven suspects were captured after a tense search through the forest.

The suspects have been handed over to the Enchi Police Command for investigation. A pumping machine was seized during the operation, while two “chanfang” machines used in mining were destroyed on site to prevent further use.

Commander Armoh appealed for more logistical support, noting that adequate vehicles and equipment would strengthen their efforts to protect forest reserves and water bodies.

The Enchi Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Augustine Mensah, confirmed that the suspects are in custody and assisting with investigations.

Municipal Chief Executive Stephen Morcher also reiterated the assembly’s commitment to protecting the environment, adding that all 33 excavators seized from previous operations remain in their custody.

He warned that no form of illegal mining will be tolerated within the municipality.