Dormaahene Leads Anti-Galamsey Raid, Three Arrested, Seven Water Pumps Destroyed in Bono Region
Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Agyemang Badu II, the Dormaahene and President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, personally spearheaded an anti-galamsey operation on Monday, September 15, 2025, resulting in the arrest of three suspects and the destruction of seven water pumping machines used in illegal mining.
The raid targeted hotspots in Dormaa-Akwamu, Akontanim, and Kobedi communities, underscoring the Dormaa Traditional Council’s commitment to protecting stool lands and the environment.
Accompanied by the Dormaa Anti-Galamsey Task Force and a delegation of chiefs, the paramount chief’s hands-on approach halted operations at the sites, seizing equipment essential for washing ore. The suspects and confiscated items were handed over to the Ghana Police Service for investigation and prosecution.
In a firm post-operation statement, Dormaahene warned, “Let this serve as a clear and final warning to all those engaged in this destructive activity. You must cease your operations immediately. If you are caught, you will face the full rigors of the law without any mercy. We will not sit idle and watch our lands, forests, and water bodies be destroyed for selfish, short-term gains.”
The initiative has drawn widespread praise from residents and environmental advocates, who view it as a model for traditional leaders in the national fight against galamsey—a scourge that has polluted rivers, deforested vast areas, and threatened livelihoods across Ghana. Dormaahene’s zero-tolerance stance builds on his earlier calls for chiefs and officials to be held accountable, including a March 2025 ultimatum for arrests of those involved.
Social media reactions hailed the effort, with users like @KwesiHubert posting photos of the operation and stating, “This is very commendable. Other traditional leaders can take inspiration from this.”
The raid complements government initiatives, including over 1,000 arrests nationwide, amid calls from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference and FixTheCountry for a state of emergency.
