12 arrested over destruction of Takoradi–Nsuta railway line
12 arrested over destruction of Takoradi–Nsuta railway line.
Twelve persons suspected to be illegal miners have been arrested for allegedly engaging in activities that led to the destruction of a section of the railway line linking Takoradi to Nsuta through Akyem in the Western Region.
The suspects, Denis Adom, Alex Kofi Acquah, Kwame Simon, Isaac Arhin, Larry Koku, Lambon Moysi, Ali Asoma, Nurudeen Kobina, Jude Azumah, Yendari Bonber, Jonathan Ayandor, and Daniel Combat are all residents of Akyem.
They have been charged with conspiracy to commit crime, undertaking mining operations without a license, and causing unlawful damage.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be arraigned before court on October 7, 2025.
Their arrest follows the circulation of a viral video showing extensive illegal mining activities dangerously close to the railway tracks, as well as the assault of a staff member of the Ghana Railway Company.
Confirming the incident to our Western Regional Correspondent, Stephen Cudjoe, staff member of the Ghana Railway Company, Nathaniel Hensen, who led a team to inspect the Takoradi–Nsuta line, said the discovery was made during a routine inspection.
“Upon reaching Akyem, we were shocked to see the extent of the damage. The land had been dug so deep that the rail track was left suspended in the air,” he recounted.
He added that when he attempted to stop the miners from further destroying the area, they became violent.
“I was attacked when I tried to intervene. They sprayed me with muddy water from their galamsey operations. It’s sad because this is a national asset we must protect,” he lamented.
Following the attack, a formal complaint was lodged with the police, leading to the arrest of the twelve suspects.
Authorities say this is not the first time such incidents have occurred along the railway corridor, as illegal mining continues to pose a major threat to rail infrastructure and public safety in the region.
Previous arrests of galamsey operators prompted a series of engagements between the Ghana Railway Company, traditional leaders, and community members aimed at curbing the menace. It was agreed that a buffer zone would be created and that mining pits close to the railway tracks would be reclaimed. However, officials say these directives have not been complied with.
Officials of the Ghana Railway Company say they feel increasingly powerless in tackling the situation and find it troubling that communities continue to look on as miners wreak havoc on critical national assets.
