Illegal miners in the Western Region have shifted their activities from cocoa farms to rubber plantations, causing extensive damage to lands belonging to the Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL). Over six hectares of rubber plantation have already been destroyed.
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A joint anti-galamsey task force, made up of personnel from the Second Infantry Battalion, Police, and National Security, carried out an operation on Thursday, August 21, at Adiewoso and Tetreim in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality. The operation led to the arrest of 12 suspects—including one woman—and the destruction of 25 chanfang machines used for illegal mining. Two tricycles and a motorcycle were also seized.
GREL has expressed concern over the escalating destruction, noting that illegal mining has caused a sharp decline in rubber production. The company estimates that about 2,000 mature rubber trees, ready for tapping, have been destroyed due to tree uprooting, premature deaths, and chemical contamination.
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“Illegal mining is destroying our plantations, leading to significant production losses as a result of chemical contamination and water pollution. This company is viable, and we cannot afford to be crippled by reduced output,” a GREL representative stated.
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Retired Brigadier General Musa Whajah, who confirmed the arrests and destruction of equipment, described the exercise as a success.
“The operation at Adiewoso and Tetreim yielded significant results. We arrested 12 suspects, seized two tricycles and a motorcycle, and destroyed 25 chanfang machines. We also briefed the company’s internal security team on ways to contain the situation,” he said.
He urged GREL to step up its community engagement efforts, stressing that alternative livelihood support is crucial to discouraging locals from turning to galamsey.
“The lure of quick money from illegal mining makes it difficult for companies to attract and retain workers. Communities need to be educated about the long-term damage caused by these activities,” Brigadier General Whajah advised.
The arrested suspects and seized items are currently being held at the Agona Nkwanta Police Station for further investigations.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem