The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has shut down a mining site in the Mpohor District of the Western Region, allegedly linked to former District Chief Executive (DCE) Asaah Mensah, over suspected illegal mining activities and environmental breaches.
The operation, which was carried out on Monday as part of a nationwide enforcement exercise, targeted the concession operated under the name JKCem I AM Gold.
EPA officials say preliminary investigations revealed that the site was operating without a valid environmental permit and had engaged in mining practices that contravene Ghana’s environmental and mining regulations.
Speaking during the enforcement exercise, Deputy Director of Mining at the EPA, Harrison Afful, said the team observed several violations, including the discharge of untreated wastewater into the environment and the involvement of foreign nationals in activities restricted under small-scale mining laws.
“We could count several Chinese nationals on site. The application submitted was for a small-scale mining operation, but what we saw goes beyond that scope,” he said.
The EPA explained that the alleged activities posed serious risks to nearby water bodies, farmlands, and surrounding communities, prompting the immediate closure of the site.
According to officials, equipment on the concession has been immobilised, and all operations have been halted pending further investigations and possible legal action.
The EPA has reiterated its commitment to intensifying monitoring and enforcement across mining districts, warning that individuals found breaching environmental laws will be prosecuted regardless of status or political affiliation.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the full ownership structure of the concession and whether additional regulatory violations occurred.
