Irate youth block Samreboi roads over arrest of illegal miners

Tension has erupted in Samreboi as angry youth block roads leading to the Sarmatex Timber Company. The protesters are demanding the release of illegal miners arrested by the Forestry Commission's Rapid Response Team for engaging in galamsey in a nearby forest reserve.

The arrested miners were reportedly operating in the forest reserve, causing significant environmental damage. The Forestry Commission's team took action to apprehend the miners, but the protesters, allegedly backed by a local chief, are resisting the arrest.

The protesters obstructed traffic and even assaulted some company personnel, causing disruptions in the community. The police have been called in to restore order, but the situation remains tense.

This incident comes on the heels of the Inspector General of Police's special anti-galamsey task force temporarily withdrawing from the area. However, the miners' return to the forest led to their arrest, sparking the current protests.

In a recent crackdown, the police taskforce arrested 17 suspects, including seven Chinese nationals and ten Ghanaians, for illegal mining activities in Samreboi. The taskforce is stepping up efforts to curb galamsey, and the Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting national efforts to eliminate illegal mining.

The authorities have yet to issue an official statement on whether the detained miners will be prosecuted. The situation in Samreboi remains volatile, with the police working to restore order and ensure the rule of law is upheld. Source: Adomonline