The Western Central Police Command has arrested 11 individuals, including four Chinese nationals and seven Ghanaians, in a crackdown on illegal mining activities in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem municipality of the Western Region.

The suspects were apprehended for polluting River Bonsa, a vital water source for the area, through illegal mining operations.

The arrests were made possible through police intelligence, highlighting the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat illegal mining, locally known as "galamsey."

The illegal activities have had severe consequences for the community, forcing the Ghana Water Company to shut down the Bonsa water treatment plant.

Its closure has led to a significant water shortage affecting Tarkwa-Nsuaem and surrounding areas, as River Bonsa is the primary source of potable water.

Addressing the media at the Western Central Headquarters in Tarkwa, ACP Bismark Agyapong, the Deputy Western Central Regional Commander, reaffirmed the police's commitment to safeguarding water bodies from pollution caused by illegal mining.

He called on the public to support the police by reporting any galamsey activities, emphasizing that protecting the environment is a collective responsibility.

“The police are determined to protect our water bodies from destruction.

We urge the community to join hands with us by providing information on illegal mining activities that threaten lives and the environment,” ACP Agyapong stated.

Illegal small-scale gold mining, or galamsey, remains a persistent problem in Ghana, causing environmental degradation and severe water pollution.

Authorities continue to implement measures to combat the menace and restore the country’s water resources, he explained.

The arrested individuals are currently in police custody and are expected to face legal charges related to their involvement in illegal mining and environmental pollution.