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

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has confirmed the arrest of two of its personnel, along with two civilians, for their alleged involvement in an attempted robbery at the Longshine Mining Company in Obouhu, near Prestea in the Western Region. The arrests, which occurred on the night of Sunday, September 28, 2025, have shocked the public and raised concerns about discipline and accountability within the military.

According to preliminary reports, the incident took place between 10:30 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. The suspects reportedly disguised their actions as part of the government’s anti-galamsey operations, storming the site and demanding entry to restricted areas. Witnesses claim the group assaulted security guards and attempted to force their way into the company’s gold room.

“They claimed they were sent by the government to clamp down on illegal mining,” a security officer at the scene told investigators. “But their conduct and the way they treated us made it clear they were not on official duty.”

Police sources say the group arrived in a brand-new Toyota pickup truck with registration number GN 6116-25, which has since been impounded as part of investigations. Their presence at the mine quickly raised suspicions, prompting company officials to alert the police. The Prestea District Police Command responded swiftly, with support from the Tarkwa Divisional Police, leading to the arrest of the two soldiers and two civilians. Two additional civilians believed to have been part of the gang managed to escape and are currently on the run.

Footage of the arrests has since gone viral on social media, showing the two soldiers—still in uniform—being escorted under guard into a police van as residents looked on. The suspects were initially held at the Prestea police station before being transferred to Tarkwa and later moved to Accra for further investigations.

The Ghana Armed Forces, in a statement signed by Navy Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations, confirmed the arrests and assured the public of the institution’s commitment to justice. The statement emphasised that the Armed Forces maintain “zero tolerance for criminal conduct” and that personnel found guilty of wrongdoing will face both civil and military consequences.

“This is an isolated incident that in no way reflects the values of the Armed Forces,” the statement read. “The GAF will not shield any personnel who engage in acts that tarnish the image of the service. Those found culpable will be dealt with according to the law.”

The case has sparked widespread debate across the country, with many Ghanaians expressing disappointment that active-duty soldiers could be implicated in such a crime. Soldiers are widely regarded as symbols of discipline and integrity, and for many, this incident represents a worrying breach of public trust.

In mining communities like Prestea, where tensions over illegal mining activities are already high, the development has only added to fears about security and corruption. Residents say the use of anti-galamsey operations as a cover for criminal activity undermines the government’s fight against illegal mining and makes communities more vulnerable to exploitation.

Civil society groups have called for thorough investigations and swift prosecution to serve as a deterrent. Security analysts also warn that such incidents, if not addressed transparently, could erode public confidence in state institutions.

For the families of the suspects, the news has come as a shock, while for the people of Prestea, it is a stark reminder of the complex challenges they face living in a mining zone. “We are already struggling with illegal mining and the dangers it brings,” one resident said. “If those meant to protect us turn around to rob us, who can we trust?”

As the suspects remain in custody, investigations continue under the joint supervision of the Ghana Police Service and the Military High Command. The nation waits to see how the case unfolds, with many hoping it will set a precedent that reinforces accountability in Ghana’s armed services.

For now, the story of two soldiers accused of turning their uniforms into a cloak for crime has left a bitter taste in the mouths of many citizens, who once saw the military as a pillar of honour and protection.