A tragic incident occurred in the Central Region of Ghana when a young policeman, Constable John Kwabena Dogbe drowned in the River Offin at Assin Asaman while taking part in an operation against illegal mining (galamsey).
Following an extensive four-hour search, local police and rescue teams recovered Officer Dogbe’s body.
Once retrieved, the body was transported to the St. Francis Xavier Hospital in Assin Fosu, where medical personnel confirmed his death after conducting an examination. The news has deeply affected both the local police force and the community.
The incident unfolded during a swoop operation carried out by the Central North Regional Police Command as part of their ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining in the Central Region, a practice that has severely harmed the environment.
Reports indicate that upon seeing the police, illegal miners scattered in multiple directions. Some attempted to escape by crossing the River Offin. While trying to seize and destroy mining equipment, Officer Dogbe tragically lost his footing on the slippery riverbank, slipped into the water, and was unable to recover.
The officer’s body has since been deposited at St. Francis Xavier Hospital for preservation.
The Central North Regional Police Command has expressed their heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues of Constable Dogbe, acknowledging his dedication to the mission of protecting the environment and fighting illegal mining.
Despite this heavy loss, the police force has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the battle against galamsey in the region.
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding Officer Dogbe’s death and are intensifying their efforts to tackle the widespread issue of illegal mining.
