An inter-security task force deployed to clamp down on illegal mining activities in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region has uncovered widespread environmental destruction and alleged high-level political interference during an operation in the Afodowa area.
The operation followed complaints from residents of Afodwoa, Nyamedema, and surrounding communities to the Member of Parliament for Aowin, Oscar Ofori Larbi, over the pollution of water bodies allegedly caused by illegal mining activities. The MP subsequently lodged a formal complaint with the Minerals Commission in Takoradi.
On January 5, the inter-security task force moved into the area and identified six illegal mining sites. During the operation, nine excavator machines were seized, with control boards, gear levers, and other vital operational components confiscated. Several makeshift structures belonging to the miners were also destroyed.
However, the operation was reportedly disrupted when a vehicle belonging to the Aowin Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), driven by his Personal Assistant and accompanied by four soldiers from the Takoradi Command led by W.O. Appiah, intercepted the task force while it was transporting the seized items to the police.
Sources say the group demanded the release of the confiscated equipment to the miners, resulting in a heated confrontation between them and members of the task force.
Despite the reported interference, the task force managed to deposit the seized items at the Enchi Divisional Police Command. Later, a group of illegal miners allegedly besieged the police station, reportedly led by individuals linked to the MCE, demanding the release of the equipment.
Following reported threats to personnel, the inter-security task force has temporarily suspended its operations and is awaiting reinforcement from the Minerals Commission before resuming the crackdown.
Aowin has long been identified as a hotspot for illegal mining, with residents and authorities raising concerns over the destruction of water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves across the municipality.
