An inter-security task force deployed to combat illegal mining in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region has uncovered extensive environmental destruction and alleged high-level interference following an operation in the Afodwoa area.

The operation by the Inter-Security Taskforce followed complaints by residents of Afodwoa, Nyamedema and nearby communities to the Member of Parliament for Aowin, Oscar Ofori Larbi, over the pollution of water bodies.

The MP subsequently lodged a complaint with the Minerals Commission in Takoradi.

On January 5, the task force commenced operations and identified six illegal mining sites, seizing nine excavator machines. Control boards, gear levers and other operational components were also confiscated, while several structures belonging to the miners were destroyed.

Trouble further ensued when a vehicle belonging to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), driven by his Personal Assistant and accompanied by four soldiers from the Takoradi Command led by W.O. Appiah, intercepted the task force while it was conveying seized items to the police. The group reportedly demanded the release of the equipment to the miners, leading to a heated confrontation.

Despite the resistance, the task force succeeded in depositing the seized items at the Enchi Divisional Police Command. However, illegal miners later massed at the police station, allegedly led by persons linked to the MCE, demanding the release of the equipment.

Following reported threats, the inter-security task force has suspended its operations and is awaiting reinforcement from the Minerals Commission before resuming the crackdown.

Aowin has long been identified as a hotspot for illegal mining, with residents and authorities expressing growing concern over the destruction of water bodies, farmlands and forest reserves.