The Western Regional National Security Liaison Officer, Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd.), has reported a significant reduction in illegal mining activities (galamsey) along the Ankobra River, particularly in the Gwira area.

This follows a successful joint security operation, during which over 150 Changfang machines were destroyed, alongside the dismantling of makeshift camps and the seizure of six excavators.

The operation, conducted by the joint anti-galamsey task force, involved personnel from the Western Naval Command, the Second Infantry Battalion, and National Security operatives.

The team carried out a 7-hour 45-minute patrol along the Ankobra River, from Gwira Wiaso upstream to Gwira Eshiem downstream, within the Evalue Ajomoro Gwira constituency of the Western Region.

Sanctioned by the Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, the task force launched a meticulously planned dawn raid on identified galamsey hotspots.

Operation Outcomes

The crackdown yielded significant results:

153 Changfang machines destroyed

87 makeshift bunkhouses razed

6 excavators seized

6 water pumps, 1 generator, and 1 outboard motor also confiscated

Brigadier General Whajah, who led the task force, highlighted the need for continuous and sustained patrols to ensure lasting impact.

"During our patrol, we observed a considerable improvement on the river’s surface. However, we also encountered a few settlements along the riverbanks, with indications that some individuals are now operating at night,” he noted.

“To address this, our upcoming patrols will focus on destroying all unauthorised structures along the riverbanks. We are confident that with sustained efforts, we will achieve our objectives soon."

Signs of Progress

According to Brigadier General Whajah, the current situation represents a marked improvement compared to previous operations.

“One significant observation we made was that, due to our earlier patrols, there were noticeably fewer activities along the banks of the Ankobra River. This indicates that our message is getting across to those illegally settling along the riverbanks,” he added.

Environmental Concern

Illegal mining, or galamsey, continues to pose severe threats to Ghana’s river bodies. The Ankobra River remains heavily polluted, with thick mud and sediments flowing downstream—an environmental crisis affecting local communities and farmlands.

The joint task force’s ongoing mission is aimed at restoring the river’s ecosystem, protecting livelihoods, and safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.