Local residents at Bontenso in the Ashanti Region have clashed with an anti-galamsey task force.
The task force was conducting a special operation in a bid to halt illegal mining activities.
Two members of the task force, ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil and G/Sgt. Agblekpe Mawuena Yao, sustained injuries to the head, mouth, and leg.
Four suspects arrested were Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, Patrick Asare (the Assembly Member for the electoral area), and Owusu Alexander.
Leaders of the Manso Adubia Special Anti-Galamsey Operations Team, DSP Karim Mahama and ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil, have reported that:
“At approximately 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, while on routine patrol at Bonteso, the Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force observed an excavator actively engaged in illegal mining within a pit, causing severe environmental destruction.
“The team moved in to seize the excavator, and while loading the machine, a group of illegal miners quickly mobilised, led by the assemblyman of the area, who was visibly seen inciting the illegal miners to attack the police. They started pelting stones and other offensive objects at the team, openly daring the police not to move the excavator and threatening bloodshed.”
They further revealed, “Two individuals were seen firing pump-action guns, which threatened the safety of the men. The miners blocked all exit routes to prevent the team from leaving the area. In an attempt to clear the blockade, the team came under live fire from the crowd and responded with appropriate force to neutralise the threat.”
“In exiting the scene, the team succeeded in making some target arrests, namely Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, Patrick Asare (the Assembly Member for the electoral area), and Owusu Alexander.
“The team subsequently gained dominance of the area, dispersed the hostile crowd, and safely transported the seized excavator to the Manso Adubia Police Station for safe custody and further action.”
They added, “One excavator was interdicted and secured; one was left at the site due to the imminent threat.”
“This incident demonstrates the high level of hostility, organisation, and armed resistance from illegal miners. Future operations in the area will require a reinforced security presence, tactical planning, and readiness for armed confrontation.”
