The battle against illegal mining in the Prestea-Huni-Valley Municipality of the Western Region has gained momentum, as the Blue Water Guards recently executed a targeted operation to safeguard vital water bodies from environmental destruction.
On Saturday, July 5, the team conducted a strategic raid along the Mansi River near the Dwabeng community, leading to the complete destruction of two Changfan mining machines mounted on floating platforms. The operation involved not only burning the equipment but also disposing of key parts directly into the river to ensure they cannot be reused by illegal miners.
Allan Kweku Acheampong, Supervisor of the Bogoso Base Blue Water Guards and leader of the operation, explained to Channel One news that while the team did not make any arrests during this particular intervention, their commitment to persistent surveillance remains firm.
“Our goal is to protect the integrity of the Basin River and surrounding environments. The destruction of these machines sends a strong message that illegal mining activities will not be tolerated,” Acheampong said.
The move comes amid increasing concerns about the environmental toll of galamsey, particularly the pollution and degradation of Ghana’s river systems. By disrupting operations on the Mansi River, the Blue Water Guards aim to preserve water quality, protect aquatic life, and safeguard the livelihoods of communities dependent on these natural resources.
This latest intervention underscores a broader regional effort to combat illegal mining through continuous monitoring, enforcement, and community engagement. The Blue Water Guards have pledged to maintain and escalate their presence along key waterways to prevent further environmental harm.
Residents and environmental advocates have welcomed the actions, urging sustained commitment to eliminate galamsey and restore ecological balance in the Western Region.
