The Ghana Police Service has apprehended a total of 208 individuals and seized 99 excavators as part of the government's anti-galamsey operation.

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These arrests and confiscation of mining equipment were undertaken between March and May in hotspots, particularly the Western Region, according to reports.

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A breakdown reveals that along the Tano River, Wassa Dunkwa, Tigarikrom, and surrounding communities in the Western Region, 58 individuals, comprising 50 Ghanaians and eight Chinese nationals, were arrested. Also, 85 excavators and three bulldozers were retrieved.Also within the Western Region, 19 individuals were arrested, as well as three pump actions and three excavators, seized by the Police Command. 24 suspects, including one Burkinabe national, were arrested and a cache of weapons, including three single-barrel guns, five excavators, and one pump-action gun retrieved in the Eastern South Region. Seven Ghanaians, 11 changfangs, and three motorbikes were impounded by police officers in the Upper West Region.Also in the Western Region, 85 suspects comprising of 76 Ghanaians and nine Chinese, and 11 excavators were seized.15 suspects, including one Chinese national, were arrested and excavator control boards, monitors, and a pistol were retrieved by the Eastern North Command.The police have revealed that arrested individuals are in custody awaiting court proceedings.Meanwhile, the police have called on the public to assist in preserving Ghana's resources.

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