A tragic incident has claimed the life of Constable John Kwabena Dogbe, a dedicated police officer, during an anti-galamsey operation in the Central Region of Ghana.
The officer drowned in the River Offin, located in Assin Asaman, while partaking in efforts to combat illegal mining activities in the area.
The incident occurred when Constable Dogbe, who was part of a police team assigned to control the growing menace of galamsey, accidentally fell into the river while working near its banks.
Despite immediate efforts to rescue him, including a four-hour search by a dedicated team, his lifeless body was retrieved from the river, marking the end of a desperate and heartbreaking search.
The tragic loss has deeply affected both the Ghana Police Service and the officer’s family. His colleagues, many of whom were present during the incident, have expressed their shock and sorrow at the untimely death of their fellow officer.
His passing is being mourned widely, with many offering condolences and calling his death a great loss to the country.
Illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, continues to be a significant challenge in Ghana, contributing to the degradation of vital ecosystems, such as the River Offin.
While government and security agencies have made strides in addressing the issue, the dangers faced by law enforcement during such operations highlight the ongoing risks involved. Authorities have promised to review procedures to ensure that such a tragedy does not repeat itself, and funeral arrangements for the fallen officer will be made public soon.
