Armed military personnel allegedly seized 15 excavators from the Enchi District Assembly yard on Friday. This action took place despite an existing court order. The District Chief Executive (DCE) was instructed to release the equipment.
These excavators are among 35 machines confiscated in May 2025. Authorities seized them from illegal mining operations in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve. These operations caused significant damage to the forest. The excavators remained at the Assembly yard while investigations continued.
This incident occurs amid Ghana's ongoing struggle against illegal mining, known as 'galamsey'. The activity degrades vast tracts of land and pollutes water bodies. Government efforts to combat galamsey have included seizures of equipment and arrests. However, the re-emergence and disappearance of seized excavators have plagued these efforts. This event highlights challenges in enforcing mining regulations and legal rulings across the country.
The Sefwi Wiawso High Court had issued an interlocutory injunction. This order favored Clean Jobs, a concessionaire involved in the matter. The injunction legally barred the release or disposal of the excavators. Witnesses reported that the armed personnel claimed to be acting on higher instructions. No official statement has been issued regarding this incident.
The defiance of a court order raises serious questions about the rule of law. It also questions the coordination between state institutions. Market watchers will observe how national authorities respond to this alleged breach. The incident could impact investor confidence in the judicial process and property rights. This situation may also influence future mining sector enforcement strategies. The government’s commitment to environmental protection and legal processes is now under scrutiny.