An anti-galamsey task force made up of the Police and Okyeman Environmental taskforce has arrested 24 suspected illegal miners at Asaman Tamfoe in the Eastern Region.
The joint team led by the Kibi Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Magnus Reindorf Sam, retrieved a pump action gun, 2 excavators, 2 motorcycles, 1 tricycle, and 2 pumping machines in a special operation on Thursday, September 30, 2022.
Osabarima Okogyeaman Apagya Ofori IV head of the Okyeman Environmental taskforce and the police invaded illegal mining sites in Asamang Tamfoe community but were resisted leading to a violent clash.
The Chief of Kyebi-Apapam Osabarima Apagya Ofori IV and others were injured in a violent attack after the former was struck in the head by a flying stone and was rushed to Kibi Government Hospital where he was treated and discharged
Some of the illegal miners blocked the road to prevent the team from moving out of the community with the excavator and other seized equipment.
The violent resistance led to the firing of warning shots as the rampaging youth hurled stones and other dangerous implements.
Some vehicles were smashed while others including the Chief of Kyebi Apapam sustained injury.
After being discharged from the hospital, Osabarima Apagya Ofori IV told the media that, the illegal miners in the community have resisted and attacked the Okyeman Environmental task force after many attempts.
He decided to collaborate with the Police to clamp down on them to protect the environment from the scourge of galamsey.
Meanwhile, the suspects are being screened for prosecution.
Source: Kasapafmonline.com/Kojo Ansah
