Two individuals are currently standing trial at the Takoradi Circuit Court for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities near the River Butre— the sole source of drinking water for several communities in the Ahanta West Municipality of Ghana’s Western Region.
The accused, 29-year-old welder Anthony Twitch and 35-year-old small-scale miner Augustine Auguendoh, have been charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and engaging in small-scale mining without a license. Both men have pleaded not guilty.
Due to the absence of the case investigator, the court was unable to determine suitable bail conditions. Consequently, the accused have been placed under police inquiry bail while their social profiles are assessed.
During proceedings, State Attorney Kingsley Nana Agyekum highlighted the environmental degradation and public health risks posed by illegal mining operations in the area.
“This river serves as the only drinking water source for several communities, and these unlawful activities pose a serious public health and environmental threat,” Mr. Agyekum emphasized.
According to the prosecution, on July 13, 2025, at approximately 12:15 p.m., a police patrol team from the Agona Nkwanta District Command discovered the two men mining along the riverbank in Ewusiejoe. They had set up a changfan machine and two water pumps at the site but failed to produce a valid mining license when questioned by officers.
The suspects were arrested at the scene, and their equipment was confiscated.
The case has been adjourned to August 14, 2025, for further proceedings.
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