Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga led a joint security operation on March 4, 2025, targeting illegal mining in the Tilli Forest Reserve.
The raid resulted in 73 arrests, including infants, and the seizure of mining equipment.
The operation, involving police, military, and immigration officers, uncovered air compressors, drilling machines, motorbikes, gold-processing tools, and personal belongings.
Those detained included 27 Togolese, two Burkinabes, and 41 Ghanaians.
The raid was prompted by a complaint from Naba Sigri Bewong, chief of Sakoti, regarding foreign encroachment into the reserve.
Investigations confirmed illegal mining directly in the Red Volta River and along its banks, causing environmental damage.
“Forest reserves are not for economic activity. Illegal mining is unacceptable,” Mr. Akamugri stated, reinforcing Ghana’s prohibition of mining in protected areas.