Police Officer Drowns During Anti-Galamsey Operation in River Offin

In a tragic turn of events, Constable Kwabena Dogbe, a dedicated officer of the Ghana Police Service, lost his life while participating in an anti-galamsey operation in the River Offin.

The incident occurred on Wednesday morning as the Central North Regional Police Command intensified its efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities in the region.

According to reports, Constable Dogbe and his team arrived at an illegal mining site, where they encountered a group of miners engaged in unauthorized gold extraction. Upon seeing the officers, the miners abandoned their equipment and fled across the river in an attempt to evade arrest.

Determined to prevent further environmental degradation and seize the illegal mining tools, Constable Dogbe entered the river in pursuit of the fleeing suspects. Unfortunately, he lost his footing and was swept away by the strong currents.

A desperate search operation lasting over four hours ensued before officers recovered his lifeless body from the river, sending shockwaves through the police service and the Assin Asaman community.

The Central North Regional Police Command has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident and reaffirmed its commitment to tackling illegal mining activities despite the dangers involved.

Illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, has long posed a severe threat to Ghana’s environment, contaminating water bodies, destroying farmlands, and endangering public health. The government has intensified its crackdown on this menace, with the police playing a crucial role in enforcement.

The untimely passing of Constable Dogbe serves as a grim reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face in the fight against illegal mining. His sacrifice underscores the urgent need for continued vigilance and support in the battle to protect Ghana’s natural resources.

Credit: Nana Kwasi Asare