The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced an immediate ban on the fabrication, importation, sale, and use of “Changfan” machines in Ghana, citing severe environmental destruction caused by their use in illegal mining operations.

In a statement issued by the Authority, the EPA noted that the fabrication of Chanfan machines is being carried out without the necessary environmental permits or authorisation, in violation of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124) and the Environmental Protection (Environmental Assessment) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2504).

According to the EPA, while the fabrication and sale of the machines have provided income for some individuals, their use in river mining has led to widespread pollution of water bodies, siltation of riverbeds, and destruction of aquatic life.

“In exercise of the powers conferred on the Environmental Protection Authority under sections 3(2)(b) and 35 of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124)… the following directive is hereby issued,” the statement said.

The directive prohibits the fabrication, importation, and use of Chanfan machines without an EPA permit. It further warns that “any workshops or shops found producing or selling these machines will be shut down, and all existing equipment will be seized and dismantled.”

The EPA has also ordered all individuals, workshops, and establishments involved in the fabrication, importation, sale, or distribution of Chanfan machines to cease operations immediately.

The Authority issued a final warning to individuals and companies engaged in mining within water bodies to stop such illegal activities, emphasizing that these acts constitute serious violations of national environmental and mining laws.

The EPA stated that enforcement operations, in collaboration with security agencies, will be carried out to ensure full compliance through monitoring, seizure, and prosecution where necessary.