The Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has implemented a major reshuffle of Police Commanders stationed in illegal mining (galamsey) hotspots across the country.
This move is the first phase of a broader initiative to intensify the fight against illegal mining and reinvigorate law enforcement efforts in affected areas.
The reshuffle targets several Divisional and District Commanders, particularly in the Eastern South, Western, and Western North regions, areas known for rampant galamsey activities.
According to a statement released by the Police Service, this forms part of the IGP’s commitment to addressing the environmental and socio-economic threats posed by illegal mining, including the destruction of water bodies and forest reserves.
Police officials have indicated that this is just the beginning, with more leadership changes anticipated in the coming weeks as part of a comprehensive crackdown strategy.
In a related development, the Ghana Police Service has made a significant breakthrough following a four-day intelligence-led operation conducted from April 17, 2025, in the Samreboi area of the Western Region. The operation led to the arrest of 47 individuals involved in illegal mining activities.
The suspects comprising 39 Ghanaians and 8 Chinese nationals, including four women were apprehended along the Tano River and in the Aboi, Subri, and Nimiri forest areas, all identified as high-risk zones for illegal mining.
Authorities seized a range of equipment and vehicles used in the illicit operations. These include 17 excavators, a bulldozer, four motorbikes, two Toyota Hilux pickups, a Rav4 vehicle, four pump-action shotguns, a single-barrel gun, 54 live BB cartridges, and eight water pumping machines.
The Ghana Police Service has called for stronger public support and cooperation in safeguarding the nation’s environment.
