The Birim Central Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Solomon Kusi Brako, has initiated a crackdown on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, along the Birim River in Akyem Oda and surrounding areas of the Eastern Region.
During the operation, authorities seized six excavators, a control board, a pump-action gun, and other equipment used in the illegal activities.
The crackdown was prompted by intelligence indicating renewed galamsey operations that threaten the area’s water bodies and farmlands.
Speaking to Adom News, Mr. Brako described the situation as precarious, warning that failure to act could result in a major disaster. He called for immediate measures to halt the illegal mining activities and restore the river to its natural state.
“The illegal activities have blocked the river’s flow and caused significant pollution, affecting the Ghana Water Company Limited’s treatment plant that supplies water to Akyem Oda, Akwatia, and Winneba,” he explained.
He stressed that the ongoing environmental degradation poses serious risks to surrounding communities and urged swift action to protect lives and livelihoods.
The operation forms part of the government’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining, which has continually devastated Ghana’s environment and water resources.
Source: Akwasi Azor
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