Youth from Agogo in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region have stormed an illegal mining site where several Chanfang machines were operating on local waterbodies, leaving them heavily polluted and nearly destroyed.

The group has called on National Security to intervene, citing the severe environmental damage caused by the illegal miners.

This incident highlights a significant environmental challenge in the district, where illegal mining — locally known as galamsey — is polluting and destroying rivers and streams through the use of machinery such as Chanfang.

Some of the youth lamented the use of mercury in the mining operations, noting that it further contaminates the water bodies. They destroyed several Chanfang machines found in the rivers they visited and threatened stronger action if the activities persist.

They described the polluted river water as so thick and discoloured it could “be used as paint,” underscoring the extent of the contamination.

The government has responded to the galamsey menace by deploying naval boats to stop mining activities near water bodies. However, the persistence of these operations despite repeated raids suggests a deep-rooted challenge that requires stronger, more comprehensive strategies — including a possible ban on the importation of Chanfang machinery.

Illegal mining in Ghana not only degrades the environment but also threatens the health and livelihoods of local communities, making it one of the country’s most urgent environmental battles.