The Western Regional Police Command has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining, leading to a major raid at Avelebo and Akango in the Evalue Ajomoro-Gwira District.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 15 suspected miners, including seven foreign nationals and eight Ghanaians.
During the raid, police also seized 10 excavators and other mining equipment used for illegal operations.
The miners had reportedly taken over vast portions of land in the enclave, engaging in unlawful mining activities that have led to severe environmental degradation, including the pollution of the Ankobra River.
Speaking on the operation, authorities stated that the confiscated excavators and other seized equipment will be presented as evidence in court to aid the prosecution of the suspects.
The raid is part of a broader effort to clamp down on illegal mining, which has become a major environmental and economic concern in the region.
The operation also aims to protect water bodies and farmlands that have been destroyed due to reckless mining activities.
 Many have complained about the difficulty in accessing clean water due to the contamination of the Ankobra River, which serves as a major source of drinking water and livelihood for several communities.
Authorities have warned illegal miners to desist from their activities as security agencies will continue to track down and prosecute those found culpable.