The Kwaebibirim Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) has arrested three Chinese nationals for engaging in illegal mining (galamsey) along the Birim River in the Eastern Region.

The surprise raid, led by a combined team of security personnel, resulted in the seizure of two heavy-duty excavators used to destroy the critical water body.

The arrest took place at Akyem Abaam, a community near Akyem Kade, in a coordinated swoop by the anti-galamsey task force.

The operation was personally overseen by the Kwaebibirim Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Emmanuel Kofi Nti, and the Municipal Police Commander, ASP Barlekor Bernard.

This latest bust comes as the Ghana Health Service has warned of the severe environmental damage caused by such activities.

Galamsey has been linked to the pollution of major rivers, including the Birim, which has been tainted with dangerous levels of mercury, cyanide, and other heavy metals.

A UNICEF report in 2024 revealed that more than 60% of water bodies in Ghana are currently polluted, with the Birim River being one of the most severely affected.

MCE Nti confirmed that a manhunt is underway for several local accomplices who managed to escape during the raid. He issued a stern warning to other illegal miners operating in the municipality.

"I am cautioning illegal miners operating within forest reserves and on water bodies in the municipality to immediately pack out as the team will stop at nothing to get them arrested and prosecuted," Nti stated.

Under Ghana's Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act (Act 995), non-Ghanaians who undertake illegal mining face a minimum prison sentence of 20 years and a fine of up to 350,000 penalty units.

The law also provides for the forfeiture of all equipment used in the commission of the crime, reinforcing the government's zero-tolerance policy.

The seizure of the two excavators is part of a broader national effort that has seen over 400 such machines confiscated since the beginning of 2025.