The Koforidua Circuit Court 'A' has fined an illegal miner an amount of GHC14, 000 for engaging in illegal mining in the Atiwa forest at Segyimase in the Eastern Region.

The suspect, Isaac Quaye together with Emmanuel Yeboah were arrested by guards of the Forestry service department on December 3 mining in the forest reserve.

A third suspect, Frederick Oppong has been hospitalized after he sustained severe injuries during a chase.

Assistant state attorney, Stephen Donkor charged them on two counts of mining without permit and conspiracy to mine.

Isaac Quaye pleaded guilty to all counts and was convicted on his own plea.

However, the second suspect, Emmanuel changed his plea from guilty to not guilty when the judge, Mercy Addai Kotei gave a hint of his possible sentence.

Her honour Mercy Addai Kotei sentenced Isaac Quaye to 1,200 penalty units or in default serve a prison sentence of three years.

Emmanuel Yeboah was however remanded into prison custody to reappear on December, 22.