In a major clampdown on illegal mining activities, a special police task force has intercepted and seized four excavators, two of which were reportedly being escorted by armed individuals suspected to be military personnel.

The operation, led by Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mr. Adorye, was based on credible intelligence regarding the movement of heavy-duty mining equipment near Samreboï in the Western Region.

According to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Eric Asiedu, Director of Special Operations at the Police Headquarters, the team swiftly intercepted two low-bed trucks transporting excavators just outside the Samreboï township.

The interception came shortly after a successful raid earlier that day on an illegal mining site at Akani, near Asankragua. During the raid, nine suspects were arrested and various mining tools and equipment were seized.

ACP Asiedu stated that the operation forms part of the Ghana Police Service’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining, in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s broader vision to protect the country’s natural resources.

“All the equipment seized has been secured, and investigations are underway to determine the full extent of the illegal operations,” he confirmed.