Illegal mining activities are severely threatening the operations of Ghana Rubber Estate Limited (GREL), with more than six hectares of plantation—about 2,000 mature rubber trees—destroyed in the Adiewoso community of the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality, Western Region.

The destruction has led to reduced yields, tree uprooting, and premature death of rubber trees due to chemical contamination.

Responding to a formal complaint from GREL, the Western Regional Security Council launched a joint anti-illegal mining operation on Thursday, August 21, 2025.

The exercise, conducted by personnel from the Second Infantry Battalion, police, and national security, targeted two hotspots—Adiewoso and Tettrem.

The operation led to the arrest of 12 suspects—11 men and one woman.

Security forces also seized two tricycles and a motorcycle, while 25 chanfang machines used for illegal mining were destroyed on site.

Speaking after the operation, Brigadier General Musa Whajah (Rtd.), National Security Liaison Officer for the Western Region condemned the growing encroachment of rubber plantations by illegal miners.

He urged GREL to strengthen community engagement to highlight the devastating consequences of illegal mining on livelihoods, food security, and industrial sustainability.

“Dialogue with host communities is essential. Once they understand the long-term harm, they can help protect the plantations,” he stressed.

Illegal mining, which has already devastated cocoa farms in parts of Ghana, now poses a growing threat to rubber plantations, putting significant investments and rural jobs at risk.

The suspects and seized items are currently being held at the Agona Nkwanta Police Station pending further investigations.