An unknown illegal miner (Galamseyer) has reportedly set up mining machinery inside the Offin River at Pasoro, near Animkrom, raising fears of contamination to the Barekese Dam, which supplies water to the entire Kumasi metropolis.
Local sources report that the unauthorized mining operation is polluting the river with heavy sediments and chemicals, which, if left unchecked, could render the water unsafe for human consumption.
“The Offin River directly feeds the Barekese Dam. If authorities do not act swiftly, Kumasi’s entire water supply could be at risk,” a concerned resident told Amnewsworld.
Illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has been a major threat to water bodies across Ghana, with several rivers and streams suffering from severe pollution due to the use of toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide.
Environmental activists and residents are calling on the Water Resources Commission, the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), and security agencies to intervene immediately to halt the illegal activity before irreparable damage is done.
Authorities have yet to issue an official response, but pressure is mounting for swift action to protect the Offin River and ensure uninterrupted clean water supply to Kumasi.
Video Credit to: Banahene TV.
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