Assembly Member for Oblogo, Abdulai Tei, has revealed that the ‘Changfan’ machine spotted on the Weija section of the Densu River was intended for dredging operations, not illegal mining (galamsey).
He stated that contrary to media reports alleging that the equipment was brought in for galamsey, it was actually positioned to clear the riverbed.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he explained that the machine was brought alongside some excavators to dredge the Densu River following heavy flooding in the area.
He told host Kwabena Agyapong that the severe flooding on 29 June left the river choked, leading to widespread overflowing into nearby communities.
To address the situation, he said the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) engaged a private contractor to deploy equipment to dredge the river and prevent future flooding.
However, a group of military personnel was deployed to the area last week following a viral video showing the equipment, and they subsequently destroyed the Changfan.
The Assembly Member expressed disappointment over the destruction of the machine, insisting the situation could have been handled better.
While the MCE reportedly claimed he was unaware of the Changfan’s presence, Hon. Abdulai Tei maintained that the local authority was fully aware of the dredging plans.
“After the floods on 29 June, several houses were inundated and properties destroyed. The MCE invited a private contractor—who also had his property damaged—to discuss ways through which the Densu River could be dredged because it was flooding homes. Following that, the contractor brought three excavators and a dredger, which was the Changfan, to remove the silt and sand from the Densu.
“That was what the public saw and claimed there was a Changfan on the Densu for galamsey activities. The MCE was aware of the excavators, but for the Changfan, I don’t know if he was aware of it specifically. He was aware of the work to be done, but for the Changfan, I cannot confirm if he was aware,” he said.
He further criticized the action taken by the military, noting that the soldiers failed to make inquiries before destroying the equipment.
“When the soldiers arrived, they did not ask any questions; they went straight ahead and destroyed the machine,” he added.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana