A Chinese national, identified only as Wu, along with five Ghanaian collaborators, has been apprehended for illegal mining activities on the concession of Zoar Mining Enterprise in the Twifo Atti-Morkwa District of the Central region.
The illegal miners, aided by excavators and other earth-moving equipment, have caused significant damage to over 50 acres of the 120-acre concession owned by the company. They claimed to be working for an individual named Ernest, who remains at large.
The arrests were made following extensive surveillance conducted by the security personnel of Zoar Mining Enterprise. The suspects were apprehended at approximately 1 a.m. on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, and subsequently handed over to the Ministries Police in Accra as directed by officials of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Zoar Mining Enterprise, which was granted a 5-year mining lease by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, in November 2023, has been severely impacted by the illegal mining activities. Despite the company's plans to commence operations, the concession was invaded by over 40 illegal miners, resulting in substantial financial losses.
Nana Akwasi Yentumi Asante, Operations and Sustainability Manager of Zoar Mining Enterprise described the arrest operation as smooth and well-coordinated. He emphasized the significant financial losses incurred by the company due to the illegal mining activities, stressing the importance of protecting their concessions to maximize revenue generation for the government through taxes.
Nana Asante further warned that Zoar Mining Enterprise would take all necessary measures to safeguard its concessions and prevent further illegal mining activities.
