Assemblyman, 3 others arrested after violent anti-galamsey clash in Bonteso
A routine anti-galamsey patrol in Bonteso, Amansie South District, turned violent on Tuesday, August 13, 2025, leading to the arrest of four individuals, including the area’s assembly member, following a fierce confrontation with the Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force.
According to police reports, the incident began when the task force intercepted an excavator allegedly being used for illegal mining. While officers were preparing to seize the machine, Assembly Member Patrick Asare allegedly mobilised a group of miners to resist the operation. The crowd pelted the officers with stones and other projectiles, and two men were seen firing pump-action shotguns at the task force.
The clash left ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil and G/Sgt. Agblekpe Mawuena Yao with injuries to the head, mouth, and leg. The miners also blocked all exit routes, trapping the officers until the blockade was eventually removed. Police say they then came under renewed gunfire, forcing them to respond with “appropriate force” to ensure their safe withdrawal.
Four suspects — Akwasi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, Patrick Asare, and Alexander Owusu — were arrested. One excavator was transported to the Manso Adubia Police Station, while a second had to be abandoned due to the escalating danger.
The suspects remain in police custody and are expected to be transferred to Accra for further investigation and potential prosecution.
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