Eight people, including a Chinese national, have been arrested by the Blue Water Guards in the Birim North District for engaging in illegal mining activities in Akyem Afosu, Eastern Region.
The arrests were made during an intelligence-led operation, and the suspects have been handed over to the New Abirem Police Command to assist with investigations.
According to the Blue Water Guards, the illegal mining was allegedly led by an individual known as Bravo, identified as Frank Owusu Amoah, the New Abirem NDC Constituency Youth Organiser, who reportedly fled the scene during the operation. The guards further alleged that Amoah assaulted their leader before escaping.
One of the site guides, Yaw Darkwa, admitted that the mining activities were unlawful and posed serious risks to the community.
Meanwhile, local resident Prophet Kenneth Owusu Appiah commended the Blue Water Guards for the operation, noting that the illegal mining posed a significant flooding risk to residents, particularly during the rainy season.
Police investigations are ongoing as authorities continue efforts to trace the escaped suspect and clamp down on illegal mining activities in the area.
