The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has initiated Operation Water Shield to combat illegal mining on River Offin in Ghana. Supported by the Ghana Navy Special Boat Squadron (SBS) and other security elements, the operation aims to remove chanfang machines and disrupt 'galamsey' activities affecting the river and its banks. This effort is part of a broader strategy to protect the river and restore its health.
During a recent riverine patrol from Bedaabour to Beposo, the task force raided six illegal mining sites near the riverbanks and destroyed equipment found there. Four floating chanfang platforms operating directly on the river were also destroyed. The patrol team observed approximately 45 additional floating chanfang platforms abandoned along the route. This suggests that operators are withdrawing equipment in anticipation of sustained security presence.
According to NAIMOS, within four days of sustained operations, illegal miners appear to be vacating sections of River Offin. The awareness of the riverine force's continued presence, particularly the SBS patrol capability, may be prompting miners to abandon platforms before enforcement teams reach them. The SBS plays a crucial role in providing riverine capability to access mining platforms and other hard-to-reach locations.
The objective of Operation Water Shield is to systematically clear floating chanfang platforms from the river, restrict miners' freedom to operate on the water, and prevent relocation to other sections when pressure is applied. The operation will also target mining sites along the riverbanks contributing to pollution, sedimentation, and degradation of River Offin. This multi-faceted approach aims to restore the river's health and prevent future damage.
NAIMOS emphasized that patrols will continue, abandoned platforms will be cleared, and illegal mining sites affecting the river will remain targets for enforcement action. The organization remains committed to restoring effective protection of River Offin and ensuring that cleared areas are not reoccupied by illegal miners. Sustained efforts are being made to engage local communities and raise awareness about the impacts of 'galamsey'.
The operation has made significant progress in a short period, with several sites raided and equipment destroyed. However, NAIMOS acknowledges that continued vigilance is necessary to prevent the resurgence of 'galamsey' activities. The collaboration between NAIMOS, the Ghana Navy, and other stakeholders is critical to the success of Operation Water Shield and the long-term protection of River Offin.
As the operation continues, local communities are likely to experience reduced pollution and environmental damage. The removal of chanfang machines and destruction of mining platforms are expected to improve water quality and restore habitats along River Offin. NAIMOS' efforts to engage local communities and promote sustainable livelihoods will be crucial in sustaining the gains made so far.
Key points
- NAIMOS has initiated Operation Water Shield to combat 'galamsey' activities on River Offin.
- The operation has resulted in the destruction of several mining sites and equipment.
- Sustained efforts are being made to engage local communities and raise awareness about the impacts of 'galamsey'.
