Police in the Ashanti Region have arrested four individuals, including a local assemblyman, for allegedly launching a violent attack on the Special Police Anti-Galamsey Task Force during an operation at Bonteso on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
According to police reports, the task force had discovered an excavator operating in a mining pit while carrying out their duties in the area. As officers prepared to impound the machine, they were confronted by a group of illegal miners, allegedly led by the assemblyman, who attempted to obstruct the operation.
The confrontation quickly escalated, with the attackers reportedly hurling stones and other objects at the officers. Two individuals were also said to have fired pump-action shotguns in an effort to stop the team. The group allegedly blocked all possible exit routes to prevent the excavator from being moved.
Police officers, however, stood their ground and used the necessary force to disperse the crowd. The clash resulted in two people sustaining gunshot wounds; they are currently receiving treatment at a local medical facility.
Despite the disturbance, the task force successfully transported the seized excavator to the Manso Adubia Police Station. The suspects—identified as Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, Patrick Asare (Assemblyman), and Owusu Alexander—are in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.
Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to cracking down on illegal mining activities nationwide, pledging to intensify operations and ensure that those who attack security personnel face the full rigors of the law.
