Police arrest 22 Togolese nationals over alleged galamsey in West Gonja
The Savannah Regional Police Intelligence Department has apprehended twenty-two Togolese nationals over suspected involvement in illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, in the West Gonja Municipality of the Savannah Region.
In a statement posted on its Facebook page on Friday, the police said the arrests followed an intelligence-led operation carried out by a team of officers on Thursday, January 22, 2026.
Police sources indicated that the suspects were arrested while travelling in a Kia truck bearing registration number BA 223-12, which was intercepted during a routine security check.
“The arrest was effected on 23rd January, 2026 when a team of police officers intercepted a Kia truck with registration number BA 223-12. The vehicle was being driven by suspect Abdul Majeed Yakubu,” the post read.
The truck was reportedly driven by Abdul Majeed Yakubu, who is currently assisting the police with ongoing investigations.
During questioning, the occupants of the vehicle told police they were Togolese nationals heading to Tuntumba, a community known for illegal mining activities in the area. They allegedly planned to engage in unauthorised mining upon reaching the community.
“Upon interrogation, the occupants stated that they were nationals of Togo and were travelling to Tuntumba, a known illegal mining community, with the intention of engaging in galamsey activities.”
All twenty-two suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue. The police said the suspects will be handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service to enable the appropriate immigration and legal procedures in accordance with Ghanaian law.
The Savannah Regional Police Command has assured the public that investigations are still ongoing and has promised to update the public as more information becomes available.
“Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and further developments will be communicated in due course,” it concluded.
