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National Security operatives in the Ashanti Region have arrested 15 people suspected of engaging in illegal sandwinning activities along the Accra–Kumasi Expressway project.
The operation also resulted in the impoundment of six trucks, a wheel loader and other equipment allegedly used in the excavation and removal of sand.
The suspects were arrested during a swoop in the Sewua–Donyina–Appiadu enclave and have been transported to Accra for further questioning, National Security personnel confirmed to Citi News.
The arrests follow the circulation of a viral video purportedly showing individuals excavating and removing white sand from sections of the expressway project for commercial purposes.
Security personnel have indicated that efforts are underway to track down other suspects believed to be connected to the activities who remain at large.
Bosomtwe District Chief Executive, Ing. Abdullah Hamidu, also confirmed the development in an interview with Citi News.
He dismissed suggestions that the District Assembly was unaware of the activities, explaining that an opinion leader in Sewua-Ayoum had handed over the land to the individuals involved in the sandwinning.
Mr Hamidu said the Assembly had convened an emergency meeting with chiefs and Assembly Members in the affected communities to address the situation and prevent further environmental damage and potential threats to the expressway project.
Meanwhile, the Ashanti Regional Security Council is expected to meet to discuss the matter and consider measures to maintain surveillance along the stretch to prevent a recurrence of the alleged activities.
The ongoing interventions are aimed at protecting the project site, safeguarding the environment and ensuring that activities along the expressway corridor do not undermine construction work.
