The Ashanti Regional Police Command has arrested fifteen individuals in a targeted intelligence-led operation against illegal mining activities at Watreso and Preacher Krom, near Manso Adubia in the Amansie South District.

The operation, carried out by a special police team, resulted in the apprehension of the suspects who were allegedly caught in the act of illegal mining, popularly known as "galamsey."

Those arrested include: Tahiru Ibrahim (24), Shaibu Idrissu (23), Boateng Emmanuel (27), Jamon Kwaku Samuel (21), Yaro Patrick (29), Kofi Boakye (21), Gubong Mathew (45), Fatawu Zackari Seidu (26), Abdul Malik Seidu (22), Dauda Tahiru (23), Sampson Grace (21), Boolangkpuo Freda (24), Arima Hagar (26), Kwarteng Vasco (30), and Kwame Adutwum (24).

During the raid, police retrieved a number of items believed to have been used in the illegal mining operations.

These included two excavator control boards, two automatic pump-action guns, two Musler 12 firearms, 59 BB cartridges, three AA cartridges, a water pumping machine, two power generators, a vulcanising machine, and an Apsonic motorbike.

All suspects are currently in police custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.

The seized items have been retained as evidence.

The Ashanti Regional Police Command reiterated its commitment to clamping down on illegal mining and maintaining security in the region.