The continuing joint police and security operation targeting illegal mining activities in forest reserves near Samreboi in the Western Region has resulted in the arrest of 21 additional people, bringing the total number of arrests to 47 as the crackdown enters its fourth day.

The most recent arrests include a mix of local and international citizens: 39 Ghanaians, eight Chinese nationals, and four Ghanaian ladies. Authorities claim the suspects were arrested illegally mining along the Tano River and in adjacent forest reserves, which are increasingly threatened by galamsey operations.

The operation, which has intensified in recent days, has also resulted in the confiscation of 17 excavators and one bulldozer suspected of environmental harm. Security officers confirmed the seizure of multiple guns and rounds of ammunition from illegal miners.

The first 26 detained individuals have already been brought to Accra for prosecution.

Security officers are still stationed in the impacted locations as the operation continues with the goal of apprehending any remaining illegal miners and demolishing galamsey infrastructure.