Twelve people have been arrested for allegedly causing extensive damage to a section of the Tarkwa–Takoradi railway line at Akyem in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality of the Western Region.
Their arrest followed a viral video showing portions of the rail track left dangerously suspended in mid-air after illegal mining activities eroded the foundation beneath a bridge.
The arrested suspects include Larry Kweku, Labin Moeshi, Isaac Arhin, Eliasu Asumah, Nureeden Kwabena, Idari Mobe, Kwame Simo, Bernice Adom, Jude Asuma, Alex Kofi Aquah, Jonathan Ayandoh, and Combat Daniel.
A delegation, led by the Western Regional Minister, Mr Joseph Nelson, together with the MP for Tarkwa Nsuaem, Mr Issah Salifu Taylor, and a National Security Liaison Officer, visited the site to assess the destruction.
Mr Nelson described the situation as alarming and urged traditional leaders to take responsibility for protecting their communities. He also directed the Ghana Railways Authority (GRA) to intensify patrols to prevent further encroachment.
The Regional Minister further called for stronger collaboration to protect public infrastructure.
The damaged railway, belonging to the Ghana Manganese Company Limited, is a vital transport route for manganese exports to the Takoradi Port. However, illegal mining has encroached heavily on the right-of-way, threatening both infrastructure and public safety.
Investigations revealed that miners had dug beneath the bridge, removing soil supports and leaving sections suspended.
The Assistant Superintendent of Tracks and Railways, Mr Sampson Nyame, said inspection had become difficult due to the breakdown of the only rail car used for monitoring.
Meanwhile, some residents have accused certain railway officials of neglect. They alleged that two GRA officers told them the new standard-gauge line under construction would bypass the Akyem area — a claim they believe had led to the abandonment of the existing line.
BY STEPHANIE BIRIKORANG
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