The Eastern South Regional Police Command in the Eastern Region has apprehended eleven suspects in connection with illicit activities in the Akyem Fichser community near Bunsu.

The operation followed a tip-off highlighting the destructive impact of the miners on local tree plantations.

The arrested individuals include nine Ghanaian nationals: Kwaku Owusu (42), Philip Tetteh (52), Abdul Raham (27), Philip Duvor (40), Joseph Asare (32), Charles Manu (35), Joseph Araboga (32), Daniel Bangah (20), and Amoako Isaac (25).

Two Burkinabe citizens, Jey Done (40) and Adoma Aboubakar (25), were also among those taken into custody.

Authorities report that the illegal mining activities have resulted in the destruction of a significant acreage of tree plantations in the Fichser area.

In addition to the arrests, police seized an excavator from the scene, which is now being held as evidence.

The eleven suspects are currently detained and are in the process of being prepared for court.

Speaking to the media in Kyebi, the Eastern South Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Ohene Boadi Bossman, addressed the issue.

He reaffirmed the police service's dedication to fighting crime and maintaining law and order within the region.

DCOP Ohene Boadi Bossman assured the public, especially those residing within the Eastern South Regional Police Command's area of responsibility, that the police are resolute in their efforts to tackle illegal activities and ensure the safety and security of communities.

This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts by Ghanaian authorities to clamp down on illegal mining, which continues to pose a threat to the environment and local communities across the country.

The police have signalled their intent to pursue such cases vigorously to deter further illicit activities.