NEWS

73 Illegal Miners Arrested in Tilli Forest Crackdown

In the Tilli Forest Reserve, which spans the districts of Bawku West and Nabdam in Ghana’s Upper East Region, 73 people engaged in illicit mining, often known as *galamsey*, have been arrested. The Regional Security Council (REGSEC) conducted the operation in response to urgent requests from traditional chiefs who were worried about the destruction of the environment brought on by illegal mining operations. Of those arrested were 41 Ghanaians, including three kids, 27 Togolese, and two Burkinabe citizens. Within the forest and along the Red Volta River that runs through the region, the suspects had been conducting covert operations.

The police, military, and immigration agencies worked together to carry out the crackdown on March 4, 2025. The security guards seized a number of equipment and items used in illicit mining, such as motorbikes, drilling machines, air compressors, and gold-processing apparatus. The arrest comes after Sakote Traditional Area Paramount Chief Naba Sigiri Bewong voiced concerns. On February 20, 2025, the chief voiced his displeasure with the widespread unlawful mining in the forest reserve during a courtesy visit by Donatus Akamugri Atanga, the Upper East Regional Minister. He underlined that immediate action is required to safeguard the area’s natural resources and stop long-term environmental harm.

Following the operation, Mr. Atanga addressed the media, explaining that REGSEC had prioritized addressing illegal mining after discussions prompted by the chief’s appeal.

“Upon arriving at the site, we discovered numerous individuals, including children, actively engaged in mining within the forest reserve and along the banks of the Red Volta River,” he revealed.

He added that in order to stop illicit mining, comparable enforcement measures would be used in other Upper East Region forest areas.

“REGSEC is committed to eliminating unlawful mining activities to safeguard our environment and natural water sources,” he added.

The regional minister also appealed to community members and traditional authorities to provide intelligence on illegal mining activities.

“The Red Volta River is already showing signs of pollution. If these activities continue unchecked, they could pose serious risks to communities dependent on the Volta River for drinking water,” he warned.

Government agencies are expected to intensify their efforts to curb illegal mining activities, with an emphasis on environmental preservation and resource sustainability.

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