The Administrator of the Minerals Development Bank, Dr Hanna Bissiw, has led the Atwima Nwabiagya South Anti-Galamsey Task force in a major operation that resulted in the arrest of two Indian nationals and ten Ghanaians for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities within the Adobewora Forest Reserve.

During the operation, which took place on Friday, 30 May 2025, the task force seized three excavators, four gold detectors, and two pump generators, and destroyed five ‘chanfans’—a type of makeshift mining equipment—found at the site.

While the specific police station where the suspects were detained remains undisclosed, Dr Bissiw maintained that those found responsible for the destruction of the forest reserve would be made to finance the cost of its restoration.

“Now we know who the polluter is. We will pursue them to ensure they bear the cost of the Adobewora Forest Reserve destruction so the community can be safe,” she stated.

Dr Bissiw explained that only unlicensed miners typically flee upon seeing anti-galamsey taskforces, drawing a contrast with legal operators who stay put.

“We went to AngloGold, and they didn’t run because they operate with a legal licence. Only illegal operators flee because they know they are doing the wrong thing,” she added.

She emphasised that government is not opposed to responsible mining, provided it is done legally and benefits the local community.

“Government is not against responsible mining. If you have a proper concession, mine responsibly to benefit the community,” she said.

Despite the arrests, several suspects reportedly escaped during the raid.

The District Chief Executive for Atwima Nwabiagya South, Patrick Osei Boamah, reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to protecting forest reserves from illegal mining and logging.

“I urge all my people, especially the chiefs, to support us in the fight against galamsey in our district,” he appealed.

The operation adds to growing efforts by state agencies to clamp down on illegal mining activities threatening Ghana’s forests and water bodies.