Three Chinese nationals have been arrested for engaging in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, along the Birim River at Akyem Abaam, a suburb of Akyem Kade in the Eastern Region.
The suspects were picked up during a joint security operation by the Kwaebibirim Municipal Security Council aimed at clamping down on the destructive practice that continues to threaten the country’s environment and water bodies.
During the operation, two excavators, which were being used by the illegal miners, were impounded by the anti-galamsey team led by the Kwaebibirem Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Emmanuel Kofi Nti and the Municipal Police Commander, ASP Barlekor Bernard.
According to Kofi Nti, the operation took place in Akyem Abaam, where the suspects were found operating heavy mining equipment without proper authorisation.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the group had been conducting illegal mining activities for several months, causing extensive damage to farmlands and polluting nearby rivers.
The three individuals are currently in police custody and are expected to face prosecution. Officials said they will be charged with illegal mining and related offenses.
Government agencies have reiterated their commitment to fighting galamsey, stressing that both local and foreign nationals involved will be dealt with according to the law.
Illegal mining remains a major challenge in Ghana, with devastating consequences on the environment, agriculture, and water resources. Authorities have urged communities to support the fight by reporting such activities to law enforcement.
Earlier, the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Tong Defa, called on Ghanaians to refrain from blaming Chinese nationals indiscriminately for the surge in galamsey.
Addressing the press on Friday, June 20, 2025, the ambassador urged for a more balanced and evidence-based conversation on the issue.
He emphasised that while some Chinese individuals may have been involved in illegal mining operations in the past, it is unjust and unproductive to generalise the actions of a few to an entire nation.
Galamsey has long posed significant challenges to the country’s environmental and socio-economic stability. In recent years, the increasing involvement of foreign nationals, particularly Chinese miners, has drawn considerable public attention and concern.
Water bodies such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin rivers have become heavily polluted with mercury and other toxic chemicals used in gold extraction, threatening aquatic life and the health of communities that rely on these rivers for drinking water and agriculture.
