A special police team against illegal mining has intercepted and seized four excavators at Akani in the Western Region.

Two of the seized excavators were reportedly being escorted by armed men believed to be military personnel.

According to the Director of Special Operations at Police Headquarters, ACP Eric Asiedu, the operation was launched following credible intelligence indicating suspicious movement of heavy-duty mining equipment outside the Samreboï Township.

Led by ASP Mr. Adorye, the team of police officers proceeded to a location where they intercepted two low-bed trucks, each carrying an excavator.

The team had early on conducted a successful raid at a large illegal mining site identified as Akani, situated on the outskirts of Asankragua.

The operation resulted in the arrest of nine suspects and the seizure of mining equipment being used for illegal mining activities.

This operation forms part of the team’s sustained efforts to complement the vision of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) in combating illegal mining and safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources.

Police have since secured all equipment involved.