Three Chinese nationals were arrested on Saturday, August 23, 2025, by a joint team comprising officers from the Kade Police and the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Kwaebibirem, Emmanuel Kofi Nti.

They were apprehended for allegedly polluting the Birim River at Akyem Abaam near Kade in the Eastern Region, according to graphic.com.gh.

The news portal reports that the suspects, along with several Ghanaian accomplices, were engaged in illegal gold mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey, in the Birim River when the team launched a surprise operation.

While the Chinese nationals were apprehended, the Ghanaian miners, familiar with the terrain, managed to escape.

During a media briefing in Kade, the MCE, Emmanuel Kofi Nti, recounted that he was attending a church service when the Kade District Police Commander, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Bernard Barlekor, informed him of the illegal mining operation underway at Abaam.

He said he immediately left the service and joined the police team to carry out the search.

Upon arrival, the team found the miners actively engaged in galamsey operations in the river. Although most fled upon sighting the authorities, three Chinese nationals were successfully arrested.

Nti further disclosed that two excavators used in the operation were seized and transported to the premises of the Kwaebibirem Municipal Assembly to serve as evidence in the prosecution of the suspects.

The arrested individuals have since been handed over to National Security officials in the Eastern Region for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The MCE issued a stern warning to individuals involved in illegal mining within the municipality, urging them to desist from the practice.

He emphasised that anyone caught would face severe consequences.

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