Accra: The Bono Regional Police Command has arrested eight suspects for allegedly engaging in gold exploration, and purchasing business without a license. The suspects, identified as Sayuba Ziba, Kienu Dobou, Osman Tunabu, Nana Alhassan, Wadrago Abdulai, Aliu Sali, Ibrahim Wulba, and Alhassan Imoro, are believed to be nationals of Ivory Coast, Nigeria, and Gambia. They were apprehended at Wewe, a village in the Banda District of the Region.

According to Ghana News Agency, a statement issued by the Bono Regional Police Command and signed by Chief Inspector Thomas Akeelah, the Bono Regional Public Relations Officer of the Police, confirmed that the suspects were arrested on Thursday, October 02, 2025. The arrests followed sustained intelligence gathering and surveillance operations by the police.

The statement, which was made available to the Ghana News Agency in Sunyani, detailed that the suspects were caught actively engaging in illegal mining and gold trading activities within the community. During the arrest, police retrieved GH?23,450.00 in cash, quantities of raw gold and gold dust, mercury, and a lighter from the suspects. These items are currently retained for forensic examination as the suspects remain in police custody, assisting with ongoing investigations.

Furthermore, the statement indicated that the suspects are expected to be arraigned before court soon to face charges related to their unlawful activities.