The Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission Dr Tony Aubyn says over 500 excavators have been seized from the various illegal mining sites in the country.

The excavators are being moved by the operators of the mining sites themselves without any intervention by the state, he added.

READ ALSO: Campaign against ''galamsey" affects gold production in Ghana

Ghana is on a national campaign to rid the country of galamsey- local word for illegal mining- which has destroyed many of the country’s water bodies.

A three-week ultimatum announced by the Lands and Naturals minister John Peter Amewu to end galamsey expires this week.

Reports say Ghana will be importing water in the next ten years if galamsey continues

“There has been rapid response by most illegal miners and this is positive".

READ ALSO: Miners begin surrendering excavators as galamsey ultimatum nears

Excavators have been moved from the bush to some parking areas.

He spoke to Starr fm.

By our records, we have close to 500 excavators moved from areas where illegal mining is common. We do not have a problem if people have excavators and are using them for proper and legal business,” he said.