The Ahafo Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has launched a major anti-illegal mining operation aimed at clamping down on irresponsible mining activities across the region.
The exercise, dubbed “Operation Leave No Stone Unturned,” officially commenced on May 18, 2026, at Adagyamem in the Tano North Municipality, an area authorities describe as a major hotspot for illegal mining activities.
The first phase of the operation lasted nearly seven hours and involved a joint security task force made up of personnel from the Ghana Police Service, Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Immigration Service, and the military.
According to regional authorities, the operation forms part of a broader strategy to intensify the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which continues to pose serious environmental and security threats in many parts of Ghana.
Officials disclosed that the exercise will be extended to other mining-prone communities across the Ahafo Region in the coming weeks.
The Regional Security Council stated that intelligence-led operations will be conducted to identify and arrest suspects involved in illegal mining while also seizing equipment used for the activities.
Authorities further warned that all persons arrested during the operation will be processed and prosecuted in court.
The Chairperson of REGSEC and Charity Gardiner, who also serves as the Ahafo Regional Minister, explained that the title “Operation Leave No Stone Unturned” reflects the comprehensive and long-term approach being adopted to tackle illegal mining in the region.
Her aide and spokesperson, Riccardo, noted that the operation is designed to systematically dismantle illegal mining networks and restore environmental protection efforts across affected communities.
