The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested 13 suspected illegal miners during a raid on a major illegal mining site at Subin Akwaaboso in the Upper Denkyira West District of Ghana's Central Region. The operation targeted illegal mining activities along the Offin River and was part of NAIMOS' fourth day of intensified anti-galamsey efforts.
The NAIMOS regional team carried out the exercise alongside the Director of Operations, Colonel Kwame Sam Appiah, and officers from the Secretariat's headquarters. The team discovered several Chanfang machines installed and being used for illegal mining operations on the Offin River. These machines are typically used for excavating and processing gold-bearing ore.
The operation encountered resistance from some residents who allegedly mobilized in large numbers on motorcycles and armed themselves with weapons in an attempt to disrupt the exercise. Gunshots were heard during the confrontation, raising concerns about the safety of personnel involved in the operation. NAIMOS' efforts aim to curb environmental destruction and protect Ghana's water bodies.
Colonel Appiah stated that the task force deployed specific strategies to contain the situation, particularly after some miners attempted to retaliate using firearms. The Secretariat's anti-galamsey campaign has been ongoing, with previous operations conducted in other regions. The goal is to prevent further degradation of Ghana's environment and protect its natural resources.
This latest raid follows three days of enforcement operations in the Western North Region, where NAIMOS disrupted several illegal mining activities. The Secretariat's efforts have resulted in the arrest of suspected illegal miners and the confiscation of equipment used for illicit mining operations.
Ghana's fight against galamsey, or illegal mining, has been ongoing for several years, with the government seeking to balance economic development with environmental protection. The country's water bodies, including rivers and streams, have been impacted by the activities of illegal miners, leading to concerns about the long-term sustainability of Ghana's natural resources.
NAIMOS' operations are part of a broader effort to address the issue of galamsey in Ghana. The Secretariat's work aims to prevent further environmental degradation and promote sustainable mining practices. The arrests made during the raid on the Offin River demonstrate the government's commitment to enforcing its laws and regulations related to mining.
Key points
- 13 suspected illegal miners were arrested during the raid on the Offin River.
- The operation was part of NAIMOS' intensified anti-galamsey campaign.
- The raid encountered resistance from some residents, with gunshots heard during the confrontation.
