A tragic incident has occurred in the Eastern Region following the death of a Blue Water Guard officer during an anti-galamsey operation in the Birim North District.
The deceased, identified as Adams Abubakar, aged about 35, reportedly drowned in the Pra River at Akyem Amenam while participating in an operation aimed at combating illegal mining activities along the water body. �
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According to reports, the officer was part of a team deployed to clamp down on illegal miners operating on the river when the unfortunate incident occurred. The suspected galamsey operators fled upon seeing the task force, leaving behind equipment used for their illegal activities.
In an effort to retrieve and destroy the mining equipment, Adams Abubakar, who was said to be an experienced diver, entered the river. However, he reportedly got into difficulty while attempting to bring out one of the machines and subsequently drowned.
Colleagues made frantic efforts to rescue him and managed to pull him out of the water unconscious. He was carried over a long distance through the bush to where their vehicle was stationed and rushed to the Abirem Government Hospital. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
His body has since been deposited at the Abirem Government Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
The Ghana Police Service in the area has commenced investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine the exact cause of death and whether any other factors contributed to the tragedy.
The Blue Water Guard initiative is a government intervention designed to protect Ghana’s rivers and other water bodies from pollution and destruction caused by illegal mining. Personnel under the programme often undertake risky operations in remote areas to enforce environmental laws.
The death of Adams Abubakar underscores the dangers faced by officers on the frontlines of the fight against galamsey, as authorities continue to intensify efforts to safeguard the country’s natural resources.
Spokesperson for the Blue Water Guards, Francis Lartsu, confirmed the incident and expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the deceased as a dedicated officer whose service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.
