Two police officers were injured on Wednesday when a special anti-galamsey task force came under attack at Bonteso in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region.
The officers had gone to the community to stop illegal mining activities when they were confronted by a group of residents, leading to an exchange of gunfire. The incident left ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil and G/Sgt. Agblekpe Mawuena Yao with injuries to the head, mouth and leg.
Police say the clash began around 11:30 a.m. after the task force, on routine patrol, spotted an excavator operating in a mining pit. The team said the activity was causing severe environmental destruction.
Four people have been arrested, including the local assembly member, Patrick Asare. The others are Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco and Owusu Alexander.
The operation was led by DSP Karim Mahama and ASP Abdul Jalil, who confirmed that the suspects are in custody as investigations continue.
