The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners Taskforce has apprehended five individuals engaged in illegal mining activities along the Birim River at Mampong in the Atewa East District of the Eastern Region.

This operation is part of the ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as "galamsey," which poses significant environmental risks to the area.

During the operation, the task force set fire to 40 changfans, which are often used for illegal mining. Additionally, they confiscated two newly built changfans that were on the verge of being deployed into the river by the illegal miners.

This decisive action underscores the task force's commitment to eliminating illegal mining operations in the region.

The arrested individuals included two miners caught in the act while working in the river when the task force surrounded them.

Their capture demonstrates the task force's strategic approach to dismantling illegal mining operations, especially following a recent military intervention that had already destroyed several changfans in the area.

While leaving the site, the task force discovered a truck transporting two newly constructed changfans to the same location.

Upon spotting the task force, the two individuals inside the truck attempted to flee, but were quickly pursued and arrested.

This incident highlights the ongoing efforts of illegal miners to resume their activities even after enforcement actions.

The final suspect, identified as Nana Kwadwo Ayimadu, attempted to claim ownership of the changfans and obstructed the task force's efforts to tow the truck.

All five suspects were subsequently taken to the Kibi District Police Command, where they are currently in custody and expected to face charges in court.