Authorities in Ghana have released fresh updates on sweeping operations targeting criminal networks in the Ashanti South and Ahafo Regions. These efforts follow large-scale arrests earlier this week.
Out of 486 individuals detained in the Ahafo Region, 136 were screened and brought before the Tafo and Atasamanso Circuit Courts on November 13, 2025, around 1:30 p.m. The courts remanded all 136 suspects, who are scheduled to reappear on November 28, 2025.
During the screening, several people were cleared of any wrongdoing and released immediately. Those freed included travellers caught in transit, juveniles, students, teachers, nurses, and other professionals who had been apprehended at their homes. They were discharged on enquiry bail after verification of their identities.
The operation also uncovered 21 foreign nationals traveling through the region, who are now in custody and will be handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for further investigation and appropriate action.
Due to limited space at Kumasi Central Prisons, 132 of the remanded suspects will be transferred to Sunyani Central Prisons.
The coordinated sweeps were conducted by a joint team of the Ghana Armed Forces and Ghana Police Service, following attacks on anti-illegal mining units. NAIMOS teams, led by the Director of Operations, were attacked in Hwediem (Ahafo Region), while the EPA CEO and her team faced assaults in Dadwene (Ashanti Region). Journalists present during some of the incidents were also targeted.
The operations, which began at dawn on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, spanned multiple locations including Dadwene and Anwona in Ashanti, Ehi in Volta, and Hwediem, Kenyase, Guaso, and Marhani in Ahafo. Security forces emphasized that the sweeps are intelligence-led and targeted at those responsible for the recent attacks.
Officials warned that anyone attempting to hinder the activities of law enforcement or disrupt anti-galamsey operations would face strict legal consequences. The Ghana Armed Forces and Police remain committed to enforcing law and order, ensuring the safety of personnel, and curbing illegal mining activities across the country.
