The Blue Water Guard, a specialized task force in a major crackdown on illegal mining activities, has arrested 11 individuals in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve near Omanpe community in the Aowin municipality of the Western North region.
This latest operation underscores the ongoing efforts to combat the scourge of illegal mining popularly known as “galamsey“, that has plagued Ghana’s natural resources.
According to the task force, the operation was carried out following intelligence about ongoing illegal mining activities in the forest reserve.
The Blue Water Guard team, accompanied by three Immigration officers, stormed the area, which was reportedly occupied by about 2,000 illegal miners.
However, the team was able to successfully apprehend 11 suspects during the raid.
“The suspects have been handed over to the Enchi Police Command for further investigation.”
Commander Desmond Armoh
According to Commander Desmond Armoh of the Blue Water Guard, the operation also led to the seizure of one pumping machine, while two “chanfang” machines used in the illegal mining were set ablaze on site.
Blue Water Guard and Galamsey Fight
The Blue Water Guard is a specialized task force established to combat the persistent problem of illegal mining in the country by the current government.
The unit’s mandate is to work closely with law enforcement agencies, local authorities, and communities to detect, prevent, and disrupt illegal mining activities, particularly within the country’s protected forest reserves and water bodies.
Over the past months, the Blue Water Guard has intensified its efforts to tackle the galamsey menace, which has been a major concern for the government and environmental advocates. The unit’s operations have led to numerous arrests, seizures of equipment, and the destruction of illegal mining sites, demonstrating its commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources.
Partnerships and Enforcement Capabilities
The success of the latest operation in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve highlights the collaborative approach adopted by the Blue Water Guard.
As Commander Armoh emphasized, the team received the support of three Immigration officers during the raid, underscoring the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling this complex issue.
However, the commander also called for additional support from the government, particularly the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, to provide vehicles and logistics to aid in future anti-galamsey operations.
This request underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the Blue Water Guard in terms of resources and operational capacity.
Judicial Reforms and Prosecution Efforts
While the arrests made during the operation are a significant achievement, the government’s efforts have also shown that successful prosecutions remain a priority.
The Land Natural Resources Ministry has recently disclosed that the government is intensifying efforts to establish special courts to handle illegal mining related cases.
As the Enchi Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Augustine Mensah, stated, the suspects are currently in custody assisting with investigations.
This highlights the government’s commitment and continued efforts to strengthen the judicial system and ensure that those involved in illegal mining activities face the full consequences of the law.
Natural Resources Protection
The response from local authorities, including the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Aowin, Stephen Morcher, demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to the fight against illegal mining. As the MCE stated, “33 excavators previously seized remain in the custody of the assembly, and no illegal mining activity will be tolerated, especially within forest reserves and water bodies.”
This strong stance, coupled with the efforts of the Blue Water Guard and other law enforcement agencies, sends a clear message that the government is determined to protect Ghana’s natural resources and hold those involved in illegal mining accountable.
As the country continues to navigate the complexities of natural resource management, the successful operation by the Blue Water Guard in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve represents a significant step forward in the ongoing battle against the scourge of this environmental terrorism.
By strengthening partnerships, enhancing enforcement capabilities, and pursuing judicial reforms, Ghana can work towards a future where its invaluable natural resources are sustainably managed and protected for the benefit of all its citizens.
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