GNASSM Taskforce destroys eight changfan machines

The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) taskforce, Akwatia zone, has arrested three illegal miners in Akyem Okyinso, a suburb of Akyem Asuom, located along the Birim River in the Kwaebibirem Municipality of the Eastern Region.

During a joint operation with the police aimed at clamping down on illegal mining activities and restoring the Birim River to its natural state, the taskforce also destroyed eight changfan machines and seized several pieces of mining equipment.

According to a report by adomonline.com, the culprits have been remanded at the Akyem Asuom police station, where they are expected to be processed for court. Their mining equipment has been handed over to the police to assist in their investigations.

Susan Danquah Tete, the Eastern Regional Women Coordinator for the Small-Scale Mining Association, who led the operation, stated that the activities of illegal miners have led to the pollution of water bodies and the destruction of several cocoa farms and palm oil plantations.

She further noted that illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, have negatively impacted the operations of the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) in the area.

JKB/OGB

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