In a move to combat illegal mining, the taskforce of the National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association (NCSSMAG) has destroyed over one hundred Changfan engines floating on water bodies in the Ashanti Region.

The week-long operation targeted river bodies in the Ahafo Ano South West, Ahafo North, and Atwima Mponua Districts.

Chairman of the Association, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, indicated the self-policing action, aside from dealing with recalcitrant small-scale miners, would help save the image of the small-scale mining sector.

"This decisive action forms part of the Association's firm commitment to support the Government of Ghana's ongoing fight against illegal mining, particularly activities that destroy river bodies and threaten our water resources and environment," he said.

The government has declared water bodies and forest reserves as red zones for illegal mining. Consequently, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has intensified efforts to rid these areas of illegality.

According to the Concerned Small Scale Miners, their operations aim to self-regulate its members towards strict adherence to environmental and mining laws.

They believe that the waning reputation of the legitimate small-scale mining sector will be salvaged by the enforcement drive.

"We, the legitimate small-scale miners, are deeply concerned about the negative image being created by the activities of illegal miners who continue to destroy our rivers and lands," Mr. Peprah emphasized.

"Their actions are undermining our credibility and the collective efforts of responsible miners who are contributing to national development."

Already, plans are advanced to enhance operations at targeted river bodies to help protect them.

The NCSSMAG has further issued warnings to individuals perpetrating illegality in the mining sector.

"We urge all individuals and groups engaged in illegal mining on river bodies to immediately halt their operations and seek regularization through the appropriate authorities," he added.

The association says it remains committed to collaborating with the government and other stakeholders to protect Ghana's natural resources and sustain the livelihoods of Ghanaians who depend on legal small-scale mining.