Frustrated and desperate to save their once-pristine River Tano, residents of Samreboi Nsuoakyi have taken matters into their own hands, burning down makeshift tents used by illegal miners operating near the river. The drastic action, aimed at reclaiming the vital waterway from the clutches of destructive “galamsey” activities, saw both Chinese and Ghanaian miners fleeing for their safety.
According to reports from Green Gold FM’s Nana Tweneboah Koduah, the residents, clad in red scarfs as a symbol of their defiance, have vowed to resist any future attempts by illegal miners to return to the area. The once-flowing River Tano has been reduced to a muddy sludge due to the relentless and unregulated mining activities, prompting the community to take decisive action to prevent further environmental degradation.
While expressing relief at the immediate impact of their actions, residents have also pointed fingers at certain traditional leaders in the area, alleging their complicity in the ongoing illegal mining operations at Samreboi Nsuoakyi. These allegations raise concerns about the potential involvement of influential figures in enabling the destructive activities that have ravaged the River Tano and its surrounding ecosystem. The drastic action taken by the residents reflects a growing sense of desperation and a loss of faith in the ability or willingness of authorities to effectively address the illegal mining menace. This incident underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of environmental regulations and greater accountability among traditional leaders to protect Ghana’s natural resources and prevent further community-led actions.