The Upper Denkyira East Municipal Assembly (UDEMA) says it will deploy 15 Blue Water Guards along the Offin River from next week to clamp down on illegal mining activities in the area.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr George Anane Coleman, announced this at a press conference in Dunkwa-on-Offin on Wednesday, cautioning illegal miners to remove their equipment and vacate the river before the commencement of the operation.
He said the patrols would cover areas from Fanteman to Asma Camp to monitor activities and drive away miners who were destroying the river and its surroundings.
Mr Coleman warned that any miner who failed to comply would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
He appealed to residents to assist the Assembly by reporting any illegal mining activities along the Offin River to enable the authorities to take immediate action.
The MCE also disclosed that the Assembly would begin engaging food vendors who operate in the evenings and at night, with plans to collect revenue from them to support development projects in the municipality.
He urged the vendors to cooperate to ensure smooth implementation of the initiative.
Mr Coleman further stated that the Assembly had held discussions with tipper truck operators in the municipality and agreed on an operational fee of GH¢1,000 to support development efforts.
He advised truck operators to cover sand and stones being transported through the principal streets of Dunkwa to prevent spillage and improve sanitation.
Meanwhile, the Assembly is planning to hold a town hall meeting in March 2026 to deliberate on pressing issues affecting the municipality, including whether to allow Pragia vehicles to operate as a means of transport within Dunkwa Township.
Mr Coleman said residents had expressed varied opinions on the matter since he assumed office, and urged the public to participate in the meeting to help shape the municipality’s decisions.
