The Special Police Anti-Galamsey Task Force has arrested four suspects, including a local assemblyman, following a violent confrontation with illegal miners at Bonteso in the Ashanti Region. The suspects, identified as Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, Patrick Asare (Assemblyman), and Owusu Alexander, were arrested on August 13, 2025, during an operation to seize an excavator actively being used for illegal mining.
The Confrontation
According to police reports, the task force encountered the excavator in a mining pit, causing extensive environmental destruction. As the team began loading the machine for seizure, a group of illegal miners, led by the local assemblyman, mobilized and attacked the officers with stones and other objects. Two individuals were seen firing pump-action guns, and the miners blocked all exit routes in an attempt to prevent the police from moving the excavator.
Police Response
The police responded with appropriate force, dispersing the hostile crowd and successfully transporting one seized excavator to the Manso Adubia Police Station. Two persons sustained gunshot injuries during the confrontation and are receiving medical attention.
Investigation and Next Steps
The suspects are currently in police custody assisting investigations and will be put before court to face the full rigor of the law. The police have assured the public that they will continue to intensify efforts against illegal mining activities in the country.
Related Arrests
In recent months, the Ghana Police Service has made several notable arrests in connection with illegal mining activities. On June 19, 2025, 16 suspects were arrested during an anti-illegal mining operation at Essuminya and Apraprama Forest Reserves in the Ashanti Region. Additionally, on May 19, 2025, 13 suspects were arrested in connection with illegal mining activities at Wassa Gyapa in the Western Region.