NAIMOS Taskforce Strikes Hard Against Galamsey Operators

  


The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has once again demonstrated its resolve to combat illegal mining with a bold and coordinated taskforce operation across parts of the Birim North District in the Eastern Region, resulting in multiple arrests, immobilization of heavy equipment, and the recovery of cash and other items linked to illegal mining activities.

The operation began at approximately 0605 hours on November 5, 2025, when the NAIMOS Taskforce departed its base in Accra for field operations targeting key illegal mining hotspots.

At Pankese, around 0820 hours, the taskforce intercepted an active illegal mining operation. Preliminary assessments indicated that local motorbike riders had alerted the miners of the approaching team, forcing several to flee before arrival. On site, the taskforce arrested one(1) foreign national believed to be a mechanic and four(4) Ghanaian nationals engaged in illegal mining. A total of four(4) excavators were discovered - two(2) without control boards or monitors, and two(2) with intact control systems, which were seized and immobilized to render them unusable. The team also seized one(1) car washing machine and two(2) buckets of hydraulic oil. All arrested individuals were handed over to the New Abirem Police Station for further investigation and processing.

Shortly after, at about 0930 hours, the taskforce advanced to another illegal mining location near the Jaadie River, known as the Anokye Site. There, eight(8) excavators were identified - four(4) had already been stripped of control systems, while four(4) operational ones were promptly immobilized. Control boards and monitors found at the scene were confiscated as evidence.

The taskforce’s presence continued to unsettle illegal mining operators across the district. Around 1215 hours, operatives encountered three(3) suspicious individuals believed to be monitoring the movement of the team. Intelligence suggested they were part of a larger group attempting to mobilize an attack on the taskforce. The group dispersed as operatives approached, leaving behind the three(3) suspects who were subsequently arrested. A search revealed one(1) pepper spray, one(1) metallic chain, GHS 17,000.00 in cash, a substance suspected to be Indian hemp, and several mobile phones.

The team later visited Amenam at about 1420 hours to inspect a mining concession belonging to Sikadwa Global Limited Company. Upon arrival, the taskforce encountered individuals claiming to be on official duty and escorting foreign nationals to the site. Subsequent verification confirmed that the company possessed valid legal documentation for its operations. Acting on further instructions, the taskforce withdrew from the site at approximately 1620 hours, but seized two(2) pump-action shotguns for verification and security assessment.

The coordinated operation dealt a significant blow to illegal mining activities within the Birim North District, with NAIMOS reaffirming its commitment to restoring sanity to Ghana’s mining sector. Despite early intelligence leaks, believed to have been caused by local motorbike riders, the taskforce maintained its composure and professionalism, successfully dismantling multiple illegal operations without casualties or property damage.

The recovery of cash, weapons, and operational equipment reflects the growing sophistication and organization of illegal mining syndicates. Nonetheless, NAIMOS remains steadfast in its mission to disrupt these criminal networks, protect forest reserves, and safeguard water bodies from further degradation.

This latest operation underscores the Secretariat’s determination to uphold the rule of law and defend the nation’s natural resources from exploitation. Through persistence, coordination, and discipline, NAIMOS continues to prove itself as a decisive force in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining.

 

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