Court orders release of ‘galamsey’ tools to accused persons, gives them ¢320k bail

The Circuit Court at Mpraeso in the Eastern Region has ordered the release of mining equipment and other exhibits seized from some illegal small scale miners to the eight accused persons arrested on Wednesday.

The court, presided over by Mrs Mariam Sinare, has also granted each of the eight persons, including three Chinese nationals, a 40,000-cedi bail with one surety each to be justified.

As part of their bail condition, they are to report to the Police everyday until the final determination of the case.

Wei age 31; Xiao age 54; Niu te, 31, all Chinese nationals, and Kofi Somuah, 20; Eric Ampadu, 22; Akwasi Abora, 29; Akwasi Sandi, 20 and Yaw Asante, 20, were arrested Wednesday by the Operation Vanguard team stationed at New Abirem.

They were accused of engaging in illegal mining in the Nwi River at Wisiwisi near Nkawkaw.

The prosecution told the court that the Operation Vanguard team was on their usual patrols at about 3:00pm when they met the eight persons engaged in illegal mining in the river.

The suspects were detained and after investigation, their caution statements were taken.

They were arraigned Thursday on illegal mining charges, which they pleaded not guilty.

The case has been adjourned to October 16, 2018