Western Region: A fetish priest connected to the "Galamsey" temple escapes during a raid

During a task force's anti-galamsey raid near the Ankobra River in the Western Region, a fetish priest who is said to offer spiritual protection to illegal miners reportedly ran away.

The shrine, which is attributed to Togbe Nana Benin and is dedicated to Maame Wata, was discovered on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, while conducting a joint riverine operation with the Western Naval Command.

After observing the squad, the priest reportedly left the location without making an effort to use any spiritual abilities.

The team also examined a number of improvised buildings along the riverbed that were utilised by illicit miners, according to Accra-based TV3.

Officers discovered a list of ceremonial materials, including one sheep, one goat, six fowls, one guinea fowl, cowries worth GHC 3,000, and an additional GHC 300 cash payment, inside a room thought to be used for cleansing rites. Nearby, two sheep and a fowl were discovered chained, seemingly in anticipation of sacrifice.

The discovery was explained by a navy commander who oversaw the operation: "This room is designated for the mallam or juju man." Even though you have gotten away, you still need to wait and come see us. We only answer to God; thus, we do not have time for this. Are you fleeing? We hope to see you with the juju next time.

Brigadier General Musah Whajah (Rtd), Western Regional National Security Liaison Officer, reaffirmed the task force's dedication to eradicating illicit mining, stating that no kind of coercion or religious rite will thwart the effort.

He pledged that the group will keep going until the Ankobra River's condition significantly improves.

The operation has rekindled discussion over whether spiritual symbols help or hinder law enforcement.

"This is where they consult the gods, their operating bed, so to speak," the taskforce head stated unequivocally. In actuality, they are ruining our water bodies, but they think that by doing this, they would receive more gold. We will demolish everything; we will not forgive them. We are prepared to face their gods wherever they may be. White lambs, white fowls, and other rites have been experienced, but we will not give up. We will eliminate them and proceed.

https://lotalghana.org/

Source: https://www.adomonline.com/