The Blue Water Guards have struck a major blow against illegal mining in Wassa Amenfi East, dismantling dozens of machines and making arrests in a decisive operation carried out on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.
Details of the swoop posted on the official Facebook page of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, which said the exercise was part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on activities destroying farmlands, roads, and waterways in the enclave.
The operation, conducted between Asikuma and Mensahkrom as well as on the Eshire River at Wassa Akropong, uncovered miners working directly on a public road at Mensahkrom, further damaging its already deteriorated condition.
In total, 30 changfa engines, 18 pumping machines, 19 shovels, five hammers, over 100 “outers,” two diggers, a pipeline, 50 washing boards, and more than 50 washing blankets were destroyed.
The taskforce also burnt down five makeshift shelters, seized a gallon of diesel, and impounded a tricycle, locally known as “aboboyaa.” Three suspects were arrested and handed over to the Wassa Akropong Police Command for further investigation.
After the raid, the Guards engaged the local committee chairman and the chief, who handed over two excavators and four culverts. These were used under supervision to reshape portions of the damaged road.
The chief further pledged two truckloads of gravel to support the restoration works, with monitoring expected to continue on Wednesday.
According to the Ministry, the operation reinforces the Blue Water Guards’ determination to protect communities, roads, and rivers in the Wassa Amenfi enclave from the devastating effects of illegal mining.
