Dormaahene spearheads anti-galamsey raid, three suspects arrested

The Paramount Chief of Dormaa, Osaagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyemang Badu II, on Monday took direct charge of an operation against illegal mining activities, known locally as galamsey, in a bid to safeguard the environment and stool lands.

The Dormaahene, together with the Dormaa Anti-Galamsey Task Force and a contingent of chiefs from the Dormaa Traditional Council, descended on identified illegal mining zones in Dormaa-Akwamu, Akontanim, and Kobedi.

The swoop led to the arrest of three suspects believed to be involved in the illicit trade. Seven water pumping machines used in washing ore were also confiscated and destroyed, effectively shutting down operations at the affected sites.

The detained individuals, along with the seized equipment, have since been handed over to the Ghana Police Service for further investigations and possible prosecution.

Delivering a strong caution after the raid, Osaagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyemang Badu II declared that there would be no tolerance for galamsey on Dormaa stool lands.

“Let this serve as a clear and final warning to all those engaged in this destructive activity,” he stressed. “You must cease your operations immediately. If you are caught, you will face the full rigors of the law without any mercy. We will not sit idle and watch our lands, forests, and water bodies be destroyed for selfish, short-term gains.”

Local residents and environmental advocates have commended the Dormaahene’s decisive action, describing it as a significant demonstration of traditional authority’s commitment to the national fight against illegal mining.

The Dormaa Traditional Council’s intervention, they noted, strengthens the wider campaign by state security agencies to safeguard natural resources and protect the environment for future generations.