The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested a Pentecost Elder alleged to be involved in illegal mining activities at Akyem Morso in the Ashanti Region.
The suspect, identified as David Bobie Peter, is said to be a foreman at an illegal mining site along the Kume River near Juaso in the Asante Akim South District.
During questioning, he reportedly admitted his role in the operation and identified himself as “an Elder of The Church of Pentecost at Konongo.”
According to NAIMOS, the operation began at Kyekyebiase, where several illegal miners fled upon sighting the task force, abandoning equipment at the site.
Officials say eight Chanfang machines, four wooden washing platforms, and several hoses were destroyed, while 12 water pumping machines were seized.
A concealed excavator was also discovered in a cocoa farm and rendered inoperable during the operation.
The suspect was later found at the scene and initially claimed he was visiting his farm, but intelligence information contradicted his account.
“He eventually confessed that he was the foreman of an illegal mining site located at Morso,” NAIMOS stated, adding that he also admitted he was sent by his boss, identified as Mr Appiah, to assess the presence of the task force.
Acting on his admission, he reportedly led officials to the Morso site, where significant environmental damage was observed, including pollution of the Kume River.
NAIMOS says the suspect has since been handed over to the Konongo District Police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
