Ghana Armed Forces Promote Soldier Who Rejected Galamsey Bribe and Arrested Illegal Miners

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have promoted Private Solomon Asare Teye-Tsu to the rank of Lance Corporal for his exemplary integrity and patriotism in rejecting a bribe from illegal miners, popularly known as galamsey operators.

The promotion was announced at an all-rank durbar held at Burma Hall in Burma Camp, Accra, on Friday, July 11, 2025. Lance Corporal Teye-Tsu, currently serving with the Department of Public Relations, was decorated by the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, who commended him for his outstanding professionalism.

As part of his reward, Lance Corporal Teye-Tsu has also been nominated to serve with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon and was presented with a special citation acknowledging his integrity.

Addressing the gathering, which included top military officers, the CDS emphasized the Armed Forces’ commitment to rewarding ethical conduct:

“While misconduct attracts sanctions, professional behaviour such as that demonstrated by L/Cpl Teye-Tsu will always be recognized and rewarded,” Lt. Gen. Agyapong said.

The promotion follows a widely-praised incident in late 2024 when then-Private Teye-Tsu, on official guard duty at Bibiani Gold Mines, was offered a substantial bribe by illegal miners seeking unauthorized access to mining pits. Demonstrating his commitment to the national fight against illegal mining and environmental degradation, he rejected the bribe, apprehended the suspects, and handed them over to authorities.

His heroic act also earned him public recognition from Ojeyz Security Limited, the private firm responsible for the site’s security. He received an “Outstanding Staff Recognition” citation signed by the company’s CEO and founder, Captain Haruna Adamu (Rtd), praising his professionalism and unwavering dedication.

Lance Corporal Teye-Tsu, 30, hails from Odumase-Krobo in the Eastern Region. He is a 2023 recruit of the Ghana Armed Forces and an alumnus of Manya Krobo Senior High School and King David College. He is also an active member of Kloma Gbi, a youth group advocating for the development of the Krobo States.