20 changfans,12 excavators seized in anti-galamsey operation-Ministry

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has announced fresh gains in the national effort to combat illegal mining, following a week-long series of joint enforcement operations across key mining hotspots.

According to the ministry, coordinated actions led by the Blue Water Guards and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) resulted in the seizure of more than 12 excavators and multiple changfan machines, especially in illegal mining sites located in water bodies and forest reserves within the Eastern and Western Regions.

Speaking to the media on Friday, October 17, the Ministry’s Director of Communications, Ama Mawusi, detailed the scope of enforcement activities over the week:

12+ excavators
5 motorbikes
4 excavator batteries
Several computer monitors
2 heavy-duty water pumps
Dozens of fuel drums
Multiple makeshift site structures
24 pumping machines
20 changfans (floating dredging machines)
Assorted tools and mining accessories

She confirmed that most of the smaller machines and structures were destroyed on-site, in line with established operational procedures to prevent re-use in future illegal mining activities.

Ms. Mawusi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completely eradicating illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which continues to threaten Ghana’s water resources, environment, and public health.

The Ministry indicated that enforcement efforts will be intensified in other regions in the coming weeks, with continuous monitoring of water bodies and forest reserves.

Residents are being encouraged to report suspicious mining activities and cooperate with authorities as the nationwide crackdown continues.