The Western regional National Security Liaison Officer, Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd.), has noted that there has been a considerable decrease in galamsey activities along the Ankobra river bank in the Gwira area compared to previous patrols.
This follows a joint security operation along the river resulting in the destruction of over 150 Changfang machines, razing of makeshift camps and seizure of six excavators
The joint anti Galamsey task force, comprising personnel from the western Naval Command, Second Infantry Battalion and National Security operatives, conducted a 7 hour 45 minute patrol along the Ankobra River, spanning from Gwira Wiaso upstream to Gwira Eshiem downstream in the Evalue Ajomoro Gwira constituency of the Western Region.
Sanctioned by Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson, the team carried out a meticulously planned dawn raid on known galamsey hotspots.
The operation yielded significant results with one hundred and fifty three (153) Changfang machines destroyed, Eighty seven (87) makeshift bunkhouses burnt, Six (6)water pumps, one (1)generator, six (6) excavators and one (1)outboard motor seized
Western Region National Security Liaison Officer Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd.), who led the task force stressed the importance of sustained patrols on the Ankobra River to yield meaningful outcomes.
He noted a significant reduction in illegal mining activities along the Ankobra River’s banks in the Gwira area compared to previous patrols.
The environmental impact of galamsey activities is evident, with the Ankobra River running thick with mud and sediments.
The operation aims to restore the river’s ecosystem and protect communities and agriculture downstream.
