The Bono Regional Police Command has arrested 31 suspected illegal miners and seized 12 excavators along with two load-bed trucks in a large-scale operation targeting illegal mining activities in Banda and Branam.
The operation forms part of intensified efforts to clamp down on galamsey in the region, which has led to widespread environmental degradation.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Bono Regional Police Headquarters in Sunyani, Bono Regional Minister Joseph Addae Akwaboah expressed grave concern about the destruction of forests and water bodies caused by the illegal mining activities.
He warned that the Bui Dam, a critical national asset, could be at risk if these operations are not halted immediately.
“If we don’t act now, illegal mining will not only contaminate our water sources but may also compromise the structural integrity of the Bui Dam,” he cautioned.
The minister also revealed that the Bono Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has noted a disturbing increase in armed robbery cases linked to illegal mining.
He stressed that such criminal acts will not be tolerated and urged all those involved to abandon these practices.
Bono Regional Police Commander, DCOP Yao Tettegah, confirmed that the suspects are scheduled to appear in court on June 18, 2025, as legal proceedings begin.
He assured the public that REGSEC, in collaboration with other security agencies, is fully committed to eradicating galamsey from the region.
“We are determined and fully prepared to bring an end to illegal mining activities in Bono once and for all,” DCOP Tettegah stated.
