The Blue Water Guards at Prestea in the Western Region have launched a successful anti-galamsey operation near the Ankobra River, acting on intelligence gathered about illegal mining activities. The guards swooped into action at a site known as “Amponsah” in the Himan Community, catching the illegal miners off guard. Upon sighting the guards, the miners reportedly fled in haste, abandoning their illicit operations
During the operation, the team seized eight pumping machines and destroyed eight chanfang machines, with three others sinking in the river. No casualties were recorded. The seized equipment was later sent to the police station, and investigations and pursuit of the illegal miners continue.
This successful operation adds to the tally of nationwide operations conducted by the Blue Water Guards since their inauguration in March. The initiative has made notable interventions in the government’s quest to combat the illegal mining menace. According to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the operations of the Blue Water Guards represent a significant step in safeguarding the country’s water bodies and depleted land reserves.
The Blue Water Guards were trained to monitor river health, identify illegal mining activities, and collaborate with local communities and traditional authorities to combat water pollution. With 400 guards trained under the initiative, the government aims to protect Ghana’s rivers and water bodies from the devastating effects of galamsey.
