Three Chinese illegal miners have been arrested by the Central North Regional Police Command at Twifo Denyase in the Central Region.
Their arrest formed part of a police crackdown against illegal mining activities on the already heavily polluted Pra River.
Following their arrest, the Ghana Police Service retrieved two pump-action guns, 22 cartridges, and two excavators, and destroyed some chanfang machines that were being used in the illegal mining operations.
Central North Regional Police Commander, DCOP Abraham Acquaye, who disclosed this to Citi News at a press briefing, also revealed that “upon the arrival of police, several Ghanaian accomplices fled the scene— some swimming across the river to evade capture.”
The Chinese suspects, even though they attempted to evade too were later located and arrested in their residence.
Over a span of four days, the command has arrested 23 suspects involved in such activities and confiscated six excavators, along with other heavy mining equipment.
Some of the equipment that could not be transported was destroyed on-site to prevent further illegal use.
Despite these efforts, DCOP Acquaye highlighted challenges faced by the police, including interference from local political figures and influential individuals attempting to disrupt operations.
Additionally, the command has noted resource constraints, such as the need for bulletproof vests, life jackets, and vehicles, which are essential for the safety and effectiveness of their personnel.
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