Two men are facing trial at the Takoradi Circuit Court for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities near River Butre, the only source of drinking water for several communities in the Ahanta West municipality of the Western Region.
The accused, 29-year-old welder Anthony Twitch and 35-year-old small-scale miner Augustine Auguendoh, are charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and engaging in small-scale mining without a license. Both have pleaded not guilty.
The court could not determine appropriate bail conditions due to the absence of the case investigator. As a result, the two were placed under police inquiry bail pending further assessment of their social standing.
Presenting the case, State Attorney Kingsley Nana Agyekum told the court that illegal mining around River Butre had led to worrying levels of pollution.
He noted the environmental damage and the risk to public health for surrounding communities.
“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 said.
According to the prosecution, on July 13, 2025, at around 12:15 p.m., a patrol team from the Agona Nkwanta District Police Command spotted the accused actively mining near the riverbank in Ewusiejoe.
The men had set up a changfan machine and two water pumps at the site but were unable to provide a valid mining license when questioned.
The police arrested the pair and seized their equipment.
Meanwhile, the case has been adjourned to August 14, 2025.
