Police in the Eastern South Region have arrested 38 suspected galamseyers during a targeted intelligence-led operation at Ntoranang, near New Abirem.
The operation, carried out after weeks of surveillance and information gathering, focused on dismantling unlawful mining activities believed to be degrading the environment and polluting nearby water bodies.
According to authorities, the suspects include 17 Burkinabè nationals and 21 Ghanaians.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the group had established an illegal mining site equipped with tools and machinery used for unauthorized gold extraction.
Security officials indicated that some equipment was seized during the raid, although details of the items retrieved have not yet been fully disclosed.
The Eastern South Region has in recent years become a hotspot for illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” prompting intensified enforcement efforts by the police and other state agencies.
Authorities maintain that such operations are part of a broader national strategy to combat environmental destruction and safeguard natural resources.
Police say investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the suspects’ activities, including possible links to financiers or networks supporting the operation.
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The suspects are expected to be processed in accordance with the law.
Officials have reiterated their commitment to sustaining operations aimed at curbing illegal mining across the region.