The Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has initiated a major reshuffle of Police Commanders stationed in illegal mining (galamsey) hotspots across the country.
This move, in line with his pledge to wage a relentless war on illegal mining activities, marks the first phase of a broader strategy to inject renewed energy into the ongoing crackdown.
The reshuffle affects several Divisional and District Commanders, particularly within the Eastern South, Western, and Western North Police regions.
Officials indicate that more changes in command are expected in the coming weeks, as part of a comprehensive campaign to strengthen enforcement operations in areas most affected by galamsey.
The reshuffle is also seen as a strategic response to the complex challenges posed by the illegal mining industry, including environmental degradation and threats to national water bodies.
In a related operation, the Police Service has recorded a significant breakthrough following a special four-day intelligence-led anti-galamsey operation.
Conducted from 17th April 2025 within the Samreboi enclave in the Western Region, the operation resulted in the arrest of 47 individuals engaged in illegal mining.
The arrests took place along the Tano River and within the Aboi, Subri, and Nimiri forests—areas notorious for intense galamsey activities.
The arrested suspects include 39 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals, among them four women. The Police also seized a substantial quantity of equipment and vehicles used in the illicit activities.
The exhibits retrieved include 17 excavators, one bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, one Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action guns, one single-barrel gun, 54 live BB cartridges, and eight pumping machines.
These items are expected to serve as evidence as the suspects face prosecution.
All individuals arrested are currently in Police custody and will be processed through the legal system.
The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the law and protecting the country’s natural resources from illegal exploitation.
The IGP has also called for public cooperation and support in the national effort to eradicate galamsey and preserve the environment for future generations.
Source | Myjoyonline
