Seven arraigned for polluting Black Volta in Upper West

Seven individuals are accused of participating in illegal mining operations, also known as galamsey. They have been brought before the court. They allegedly caused pollution in the Black Volta.

The Upper West Region’s Principal State Attorney, Mr Saeed Abdul Shakur, has verified a detainment. Seven individuals were detained for unlawful mining along the Black Volta River. They have been brought before the Wa District Court. This is to assist with ongoing investigations.

The Regional Police Command apprehended seven individuals on April 10, 2025. They were involved in unlawful mining operations in the Chiantanga community near Dorimon. This action followed a prosperous operation.

Mr Abdul Shakur announced that seven individuals were arraigned before the district court on Sunday, April 13. The group consisted of 5 males and two females. The purpose was to aid police investigations and place them in lawful custody.

Sabugu Razak, Ibrahim Zuberu, Alex Amedzake, John Cobblah, Promise Dufe, Angelina Akpese, and Rebecca Tumawu were among those detained.

In addition, authorities confiscated various items from the raid. These items included ten Changfang mining machines. They also confiscated two PNE and Apsonic tricycles without registration. A motorbike with the registered plate M-24-NR 6010 and another with M-23-UW 4413 were taken. Authorities also seized two unregistered Haojue and Apsonic motorbikes. Six student mattresses, suspected to have been utilized by the miners on the premises, were also confiscated.

The suspects are currently being held by police and cooperating with investigations. According to authorities, they will face legal consequences once the investigations are finished.

According to authorities, the operation is a fresh attempt to crack down on unlawful mining operations in the area. It specifically targets those that pose a danger to significant water sources like the Black Volta.

The Regional Police Command remains dedicated to protecting the environment and ensuring the well-being of local communities.

In recent months, inhabitants along the Black Volta have expressed worries over various issues. These issues include pollution and encroachment. They believe unlawful mining activities have caused these problems. These concerns have also been linked to a rise in insecurity and degradation of land in the Wa West District.