Tensions are mounting in the Tano North Municipality of the Ahafo Region as chiefs and residents of Krofrom and nearby farming communities have vowed to resist illegal mining (galamsey) activities along the River Besi, a key tributary of the Tano River.

The communities fear that the ongoing mining operations threaten their main source of drinking water and could lead to severe environmental degradation if urgent measures are not taken.

Speaking to Nana Antwi Boasiako, the Chief of Krofrom confirmed the presence of illegal mining activities in the area, lamenting that “all the rivers in this area have been polluted.”

He stressed that the River Besi remains the only reliable source of water for residents and vowed that the chiefs and people of Krofrom, Besi, Adrobaa, and Subriso will not allow anyone to destroy it.

“We will resist any attempt to mine here,” the Chief declared.

“We are calling on the government and the Municipal Chief Executive, Mr Pious Opoku, to take immediate action and drive these illegal miners out of our communities.”

Several farmers and residents also expressed concern over the destruction of farmlands and the potential loss of livelihoods if the illegal operations persist.

“If galamsey destroys our lands and pollutes our water, how can we survive?” one farmer questioned.

“We plead with the authorities to intervene before it’s too late.”

The communities are calling for swift intervention from the Tano North Municipal Assembly, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and security agencies to protect their lands and water resources from further destruction.