The Western North Regional Small-Scale Miners Association has intensified its efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities, particularly targeting those operating on river bodies.
In a coordinated operation led by the Association’s taskforce, several mining equipment, including canoes, and changfans have been set ablaze along various rivers in the region.
The action, aimed at protecting water bodies from further destruction, comes amidst growing concerns over the increasing levels of pollution and siltation caused by illegal mining.
Local communities have long suffered from contaminated water sources, which has not only affected access to potable water but also threatened aquatic life.
Speaking to the media, the chairman of the Association, Vasco Daforhu emphasized the need to protect natural resources.
He said this is a fight to preserve the environment for future generations and they will not allow a few individuals to destroy the water bodies.
The taskforce’s operation, which spanned across several rivers in districts such as Suaman Dadieso, Aowin and others was carried out with the support of local security forces.
The team identified key illegal mining sites and swiftly moved to dismantle equipment found on the riverbanks. In an effort to send a strong warning, the seized machines were set on fire.
Also, the Secretary, Pritz Wise Tagoe appealed to the public to support them in fighting the bad but among them devoid of political meanings.
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