A major anti-illegal mining operation at the Atewa Range Forest Reserve has led to the arrest of 24 suspected miners.
The operation, carried out by a Rapid Response Team in the early hours of Monday, targeted Sagyimase, a community located near the forest reserve.
According to reports, the coordinated raid began around 3:30 a.m., with about 30 officers deployed from multiple teams to flush out illegal miners operating deep within the forest.
During the exercise, 24 suspects were arrested, while several others managed to escape into nearby areas.
The suspects are currently being processed in Kyebi and are expected to be handed over to the Ghana Police Service for further investigations and possible prosecution.
Security personnel also destroyed equipment used in the illegal mining activities. A total of 16 water pumping machines were burnt, while 52 makeshift tents believed to house the miners were set ablaze.
In addition, two machines were seized as exhibits to support ongoing investigations.
The Atewa Forest is one of Ghana’s most important ecological zones. It is known for its rich biodiversity and serves as a major source of water for several communities.
However, the area has come under increasing threat from illegal mining activities, which have led to deforestation and pollution of water bodies.
This latest operation forms part of ongoing national efforts to tackle illegal mining across the country.
