Galamsey: Over 1,300 arrested, 425 excavators and machinery seized – Lands Minister

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced a significant milestone in the government’s fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

He disclosed that 1,345 individuals have been arrested nationwide and 425 excavators and other heavy equipment seized since intensified operations began.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, July 23, Mr. Buah said the multi-agency operation is part of a broader national strategy to combat the environmental and socio-economic destruction caused by illegal mining.

He credited the successful arrests and seizures to a joint effort involving the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Armed Forces, the National Security Secretariat, the Attorney General’s office, and the Forestry Commission.

“In collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Armed Forces, the National Security secretariat, including the Attorney general, 425 excavators and other machineries have been seized. We have also made 1345 arrests nationwide since we started and prosecutions are steadily progressing,” he said.

Illegal mining has become one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental challenges over the past two decades.

Though often tied to economic desperation and youth unemployment, galamsey has grown into a destructive industry—decimating forests, polluting rivers with mercury and cyanide, and leaving farmlands barren.

Key water bodies like the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin rivers have become heavily polluted, threatening drinking water supplies for millions. In addition, many protected forest reserves have been encroached upon, undermining conservation efforts and biodiversity..

Mr. Buah urged the public, especially local communities, to support the campaign by reporting illegal operations and resisting any political pressure to shield offenders.