Ghana Armed Forces Confirms Arrest of Two Soldiers Over Alleged Mining Company Robbery

October 3, 2025 

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has confirmed the arrest of two soldiers in connection with an alleged robbery attempt at a mining company in the Western Region, raising fresh concerns about the involvement of security personnel in criminal activities linked to illegal mining operations.

The Incident

The two soldiers, along with two civilians, were arrested by police for their alleged involvement in a robbery attempt at the Longshine Mining Company Limited in Obouhu, a suburb of Prestea in the Western Region. The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday, September 28, 2025.

A video circulating on social media shows the uniformed officers being escorted into a police van for transfer to Accra, where further investigations are expected to be conducted.

Official Confirmation

In a statement issued Thursday evening, October 2, 2025, Navy Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, the Acting Director General in charge of Public Relations for the Ghana Armed Forces, confirmed the arrests and announced that the military is collaborating with police to investigate the allegations.

"If found culpable, the personnel will face the law as any citizen of Ghana," Captain Arhin stated, emphasizing that GAF will not "shield its personnel involved in criminal activities."

Growing Concerns

Details surrounding the attempted robbery remain limited, but the arrests have intensified concerns about a troubling trend of security personnel being implicated in violent crimes, particularly those connected to illegal mining activities, commonly known as 'galamsey.'

The incident highlights ongoing challenges in Ghana's fight against illegal mining operations and the apparent infiltration of criminal elements within security services meant to protect citizens and enforce the law.

Investigation Ongoing

The suspects have been transferred to Accra for further investigation. The Ghana Armed Forces has assured the public of its commitment to transparency and accountability in handling the case.

The military's swift acknowledgment of the arrests and its pledge to ensure justice is served represents a critical test of institutional integrity as Ghana continues to grapple with illegal mining and associated criminal activities.