The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Akyemansa,Hon. Linda Ahenkora, has issued a stern warning to illegal miners, labeling them her “worst enemies” as the district intensifies its crackdown on environmental destruction.
Since assuming office, Mrs Ahenkora has spearheaded a rigorous campaign to purge the district’s water bodies of galamsey (illegal mining) operations.
Hon. Linda Ahenkora, DCE, Akyemansa
Under her leadership, the newly formed Akyemansa Anti-Galamsey Taskforce has recorded significant wins in protecting the local ecosystem.
The DCE has revealed that the taskforce’s operations have resulted in the confiscation of 300 Changfang and pumping machines,105 boats and over 50 individuals arrested for illegal mining activities.
”We will not stop until our environment is safeguarded,” Mrs Ahenkora told the media.
She emphasized that the primary focus remains on those polluting the district’s vital water bodies, which pose a direct threat to public health and local farmlands.
The DCE rated the current progress of the anti-galamsey fight at 65%, attributing this success to the synergy between the District Assembly and security agencies, including the Police, Niamos, and the Blue Water Guards.
George Gyasi, the Operations Commander for the Blue Water Guards in Akyemansa, confirmed that their targeted operations began on January 5 this year.
George Gyasi, Operations Commander, Blue Water Guards in Akyemansa
The unit is specifically tasked with patrolling the Prah and Birim rivers.
”Our focus is protecting the water. We have seized numerous machines and made several arrests in these river bodies with the full support of the DCE,” Gyasi stated.
Addressing local speculation, Commander Gyasi categorically denied rumors that confiscated mining equipment was being secretly returned to operators.
He reiterated that the equipment is held under strict protocols and warned that anyone caught polluting the area’s water bodies would face the full rigors of the law.
The District Assembly continues to advocate for sustainable development, urging residents to transition away from illegal mining toward environmentally friendly livelihoods.
By 1960news.com
