The Atiwa East District Assembly in the Eastern Region has inaugurated 16 Blue Water Guard personnel on Monday, January 19, 2026, after they underwent a month-long intensive military training, which included swimming lessons to prepare them for their duties.
The Blue Water Guard initiative was instituted by the government to assist the anti-illegal mining task force in apprehending galamsey operators who often dive into rivers to evade arrest during operations.
Speaking at the ceremony, the District Chief Executive (DCE), Ernest Owusu Ntim, emphasized that the government does not prohibit mining in Ghana, however, he stressed that mining must be conducted responsibly to safeguard water bodies and lands.
He noted that President John Dramani Mahama recognizes the vital role water resources play in human life, hence the training and remuneration of these young personnel to protect rivers from pollution caused by illegal mining.
Mr. Owusu Ntim urged the Blue Water Guard personnel to act professionally and ensure that anyone who flouts the law by operating along riverbanks is brought to justice. He expressed confidence that such enforcement would serve as a deterrent to others.
On behalf of the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Armah Kofi Buah, Mr. Steven Addo appealed to residents of Atiwa East, particularly traditional leaders, Assembly Members, and opinion leaders, to rally behind the Blue Water Guard personnel as they begin their work to achieve their targeted tasks by helping the government in the galamsey fight in the district.
He said that while the guards may not be armed, their greatest weapon is the collective support of the community in the fight against illegal mining.
For his part, the District Crime Officer of the Atiwa East Police Command, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Magnus Effah, explained that the police now have trained personnel capable of diving into rivers to pursue and arrest illegal miners attempting to escape.
He implored the guards to promptly call for police backup whenever they encounter danger during operations.
By// Kontihen Kofi Oboh.
Source// Obohnewsonline.com.
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