Drone technology needed to stop illegal mining at river sources – Western Regional Minister

The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has called for the immediate deployment of a drone surveillance system to strengthen the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, particularly along the upstream sections of major rivers in the region.

According to him, ongoing anti-galamsey operations focused largely on downstream activities have not yielded the desired results, as miners continue to pollute water bodies from their sources.

He made the call in an interview with Channel One TV following a joint anti-galamsey operation by the Second Infantry Battalion (2BN) of the Ghana Army and the Western Naval Command along the upstream of the Ankobra River in the Amenfi Central District of the Western Region.

The operation led to the seizure of seven excavators and seven water-pumping machines used for illegal mining activities along the river.

Despite months of sustained anti-galamsey operations along the Ankobra River by combined security agencies, the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC) says expectations have not been fully met. This prompted Saturday’s renewed joint operation targeting illegal mining sites upstream of the river.

During the operation, the security team encountered extensive environmental destruction, with some mining pits dangerously close to the river, major roads and electricity poles. Along the Tarkwa–Breman road leading to the main galamsey site, large-scale excavations were observed, causing significant inconvenience to motorists and residents.

Some residents in the affected communities expressed frustration over the persistent activities of illegal miners and their impact on livelihoods and safety.

Leading the operation, the Western Regional National Security Liaison Officer, Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd), said while security agencies remain committed to clamping down on illegal mining, the rapid re-emergence of galamsey activities after operations remains a major concern.

He stressed the need for enhanced surveillance and sustained operations to prevent miners from returning to cleared sites.

The Western Regional Minister, who is also the Chairman of the Regional Security Council, said the introduction of drone technology would allow for real-time monitoring of illegal mining activities, especially in hard-to-reach areas upstream.

According to Joseph Nelson, effective surveillance at the source of rivers such as the Ankobra and Pra is critical to protecting water bodies from further pollution and ensuring the long-term success of the anti-galamsey campaign.