Following recent attacks on the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and Ghana Police Service (GPS) apprehended over 350 individuals in coordinated operations throughout towns in the Ashanti and Ahafo regions.
Dadwene and Anwona were among the towns targeted in Ashanti, as were Hwediem, Kenyase, Guaso, and Marhani in Ahafo. 150 people were arrested in Obuasi Municipality following related raids in Kyekyewera, Dadwene, Awona, and Nhyiayeso.
According to Naval Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director of Public Relations at the GAF, the operation aimed to apprehend individuals involved in attacks on NAIMOS personnel, police officers, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials, journalists, and other anti-galamsey operatives.
Around 6:30 a.m., operations started, with security guards entering homes and locations to hold people for initial screening. Afterwards, the suspects were taken to the Central Police Station in Adum for more enquiries aimed at identifying the real offenders.
On orders from Inspector General of Police (IGP) COP Christian Tetteh Yohonu, Commissioner of Police (COP) Dr. Sayibu Padi Gariba led the operation. He emphasised that any attempt to disrupt authorised activities, particularly against illegal mining, would be dealt with harsh legal action.
COP Christian Tetteh Oklu, Director of Legal and Prosecution, echoed this position by reiterating the president’s backing of the anti-galamsey team and promising residents sufficient security measures.
He called on communities to maintain composure and carry on with their regular routines fearlessly.
The coordinated operation is a clear reminder that there would be no tolerance for violence or impunity against state officials in mining towns.
Source: newsthemegh.com