Kojo Peprah, Small Scale Miners Association Chair, Arrested in Anti-Galamsey Operation

Miners Association Chair Arrested During Anti-Illegal Mining Operation

Police arrested the Chairman of Ghana’s Small Scale Miners Association during a crackdown on illegal mining activities in the Desiri Forest Reserve. Kojo Peprah faces charges for allegedly interfering with law enforcement operations targeting unauthorized mining in the protected Ashanti Region forest.

The Inspector-General of Police’s Special Anti-Galamsey Taskforce detained Peprah after he reportedly confronted officers during their mission. Police reports indicate the association leader demanded explanations for the taskforce’s presence in the area and attempted to disrupt their anti-illegal mining operation.

The arrest occurred in Desiri Forest Reserve, a protected woodland area in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. The location has become a focal point for authorities combating “galamsey” – the local term for illegal small-scale mining operations that damage forests and water bodies.

Ghana’s government has intensified efforts to eliminate illegal mining through specialized taskforces like the Anti-Galamsey unit. These operations target unauthorized mining activities that threaten the country’s forest reserves and water resources.

The incident highlights growing tensions between mining associations and law enforcement agencies. Small-scale miners often clash with authorities over licensing requirements and environmental regulations governing mining activities in protected areas.

Peprah’s arrest demonstrates the government’s commitment to enforcing anti-illegal mining laws, regardless of an individual’s position within mining organizations. The case will likely influence future interactions between mining associations and regulatory authorities across Ghana’s mining regions.

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