The Bono Regional Police Command has arrested eight foreign nationals suspected of engaging in illegal gold operations at Wewe, a community near Banda in the Bono Region.

The suspects — Sayuba Ziba, Kienu Dobou, Osman Tunabu, Nana Alhassan, Wadrago Abdulai, Aliu Sali, Ibrahim Wulba, and Alhassan Imoro — are believed to be nationals of Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia.

According to a police statement, the arrests were made on Thursday, October 2, 2025, following weeks of surveillance and intelligence-led operations in the area.

The suspects were reportedly caught in the act of conducting illegal mining and gold trading activities. During the operation, police seized several items, including GH₵23,450 in cash, raw gold, gold dust, mercury, and a lighter believed to have been used in gold processing.

Police officials confirmed that the retrieved exhibits have been secured for forensic analysis.

“All eight suspects are currently in police custody assisting with investigations. The Bono Regional Police Command is making arrangements to put them before court,” the statement added.

Authorities have emphasized their continued commitment to clamp down on illegal gold operations and ensure that Ghana’s natural resources are protected from unlawful exploitation.