The Western Regional Police Command, in a major crackdown on illegal mining activities, has disabled more than 120 changfang machines and arrested 13 individuals at Wassa Gyapa in the Western Region.

The operation, carried out on Monday, 19th May 2025, forms part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining (galamsey) in the area.

The suspects arrested include: Nana Ampadu, Stephen Tetteh, Yaw Dalame, Samuel Amoah, Kwame Oppong, Francis Oduom, Owusu Asare, Atta Kwame, Apiyanga Emmanuel, Kojo Montanakito, Maxwell Owusu, Obofo Vincent, and Soogal Fataw.

In addition to the destruction of the changfang machines, six motorbikes were also retrieved from the mining site.

The suspects are expected to appear before the Tarkwa Circuit Court today, Tuesday, 20th May 2025, to face charges related to illegal mining.

The police say the operation is part of a broader strategy to clamp down on activities that threaten the region’s environment and water bodies.