20 Galamseyers, Including 2 Chinese Nationals, Arrested at New Abirem

The Akyem Kotoku Environmental Task Force arrested 20 individuals, including two Chinese nationals, on Sunday, October 13, 2024, for engaging in illegal mining activities at New Abirem in the Eastern Region. The suspects were apprehended near the Roman Missionary House in the Birim North District.

During the raid, the task force seized three excavators, mining equipment, and two pumping machines. The arrested individuals are currently in police custody, awaiting court proceedings.

The operation followed tensions in the area, where local youth had protested against the transportation of excavators into the community, suspecting they were meant for illegal mining, or “galamsey.” The same machines were later found being used for mining behind the Roman Missionary House.

Birim North District Chief Executive (DCE) Hon. Raymond Nana Damptey has been accused multiple times of involvement in illegal mining, although he has denied these allegations. A viral video from the operation showed the DCE and Nana Aduasenehene allegedly attempting to use their influence to counter the youth’s opposition to galamsey activities.

Eric Gyataba, head of the task force, expressed frustration over interference from local authorities in their efforts to combat illegal mining.