12 illegal miners to face court over Takoradi-Akyem rail line destruction

Twelve suspected illegal miners are set to appear before the Tarkwa Circuit Court today, October 7, 2025.

They were arrested in connection with the destruction of portions of the Tarkwa-Takoradi railway line near Akyem in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality.

The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has strongly condemned the act, describing it as a reckless assault on vital national infrastructure. He called on local chiefs and opinion leaders to take a proactive role in safeguarding their communities against such destructive activities.

The damaged stretch of railway, owned by the Ghana Manganese Company Limited, serves as a key transportation route for manganese exports. However, it has become increasingly threatened by illegal mining operations that have encroached on sections of the rail corridor.

A viral video showing extensive damage near Akyem sparked outrage and prompted an emergency visit to the site by the Regional Minister, the Member of Parliament for Tarkwa Nsuaem, Issah Salifu Taylor, and a National Security Liaison Officer. Upon inspection, officials discovered that miners had dug beneath a railway bridge, leaving the tracks hanging dangerously in mid-air. Other portions of the line had caved in, while some rails were reportedly dismantled and stolen.

Visibly disturbed, Mr. Nelson urged the Ghana Railways Authority (GRA) to intensify patrols and collaborate with security agencies to prevent further destruction. “This situation is unacceptable and demands swift action. We must not allow a few individuals to endanger the lives and livelihoods of others,” he said.

Meanwhile, some residents blamed the GRA for lax supervision, claiming officers told them the line would soon be abandoned due to a new standard-gauge project — an explanation they say emboldened the vandals.

Police have confirmed the arrest of twelve suspects linked to the vandalism. The accused are expected to be arraigned today as investigations continue into the extent of damage and possible accomplices.