The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners, in collaboration with the military, has ramped up efforts to tackle illegal mining, particularly along the Birim River, as part of a broader government initiative to safeguard the environment.

0

The primary objective of the operation is to mitigate the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, or "galamsey," with a special focus on restoring water bodies heavily impacted by these activities.

1

Recently, three chanfan machines, commonly employed for unlawful gold extraction, were confiscated and destroyed along the banks of the Birim River. The operation, part of the intensified "Operation Halt" initiative, also involved burning industrial equipment linked to the illicit mining activities.

2

This initiative aims to revive the severely polluted Birim River, which has been damaged by illegal mining operations.

3

Led by the military, the task force initially concentrated efforts in Anyinam, a hotspot for illegal mining in the Atiwa East District of the Eastern Region. Despite receiving a tip-off, causing many miners to flee, the military successfully seized and destroyed key equipment used in the illegal activities.

4

Colonel Eric Tenadu, Commander of the Operation Halt Task Force, announced that military forces will maintain a strong presence along the Birim River and other critical areas for the next two weeks. This marks the beginning of a wider crackdown aimed at reducing the damage illegal mining has caused to Ghana’s water bodies and ecosystems.

5

"We are launching this operation to make sure that we clear our water bodies. Whether registered or unregistered, we don’t care, our concern is the water body, so far as you are close to the water body, you are our target.”

6

The collaboration between the military and the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners is considered a significant step toward curbing illegal mining activities.

7

Authorities are hopeful that this operation will not only deter illegal mining but also contribute to the long-term recovery of environments heavily affected by galamsey.

8