In a decisive move to combat illegal mining activities, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has apprehended two Chinese nationals and intercepted several Burkinabè workers during a series of coordinated operations in Ghana's Western North and Western Regions. The operations, conducted on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, are part of the government's intensified efforts to curb the menace of illegal mining, commonly referred to as "galamsey."
Arrests and Discovery in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve
Acting on intelligence reports, NAIMOS operatives targeted an illegal mining site within the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in Jomoro. Initial access to the forest was obstructed by some Forest Guards, but the team eventually gained entry, uncovering an active mining operation along the Tano River.
During the raid, a Toyota Land Cruiser V8 attempted to flee the scene. However, two Chinese nationals aboard the vehicle were apprehended, while a third suspect managed to escape. The operation led to significant discoveries, including four excavators—three of which had already been immobilized prior to the raid, with the fourth disabled on-site.
Additionally, evidence of environmental degradation was uncovered, including river diversion activities and the presence of two high-powered water pumps. The site also contained 12 makeshift mining camps, all of which were subsequently destroyed by the task force.
Items Recovered and Further Investigation
The operatives retrieved various items from the scene, including GH¢10,050 in cash, mobile phones, two-way radios, fuel drums, and control panels. The arrested Chinese nationals have since been transferred to Accra for further investigation.
Preliminary reports suggest that the suspects were operating under the pretense of a community mining project purportedly sanctioned by Nana Kwame Nkansah, the local chief of Jomoro. Authorities believe that the arrested individuals acted as financiers, providing logistical and financial support for the illegal mining activities in the area.
NAIMOS' Commitment to Eradicating Galamsey
In an official statement following the operation, NAIMOS reiterated its commitment to taking firm action against both local and foreign sponsors of illegal mining activities. The Secretariat emphasized that "no one will be spared if found complicit," signaling its zero-tolerance stance on galamsey.
Related Operation in Essipong
In a separate but related operation near Essipong in the Western Region, NAIMOS operatives visited Bugart Mining, where Burkinabè nationals were found working at a site near the Kwama stream and a major road. While representatives of Bugart Mining claimed to possess a valid licence issued in 2012, questions were raised regarding the legality of employing foreign workers without proper documentation.
During this operation, a CAT excavator was immobilized on-site. The company was instructed to report to NAIMOS headquarters in Accra on Thursday, October 9, along with all Burkinabè workers for verification and further investigation into their employment status.
A Call to Action
The recent operations underscore the Ghanaian government’s determination to address illegal mining activities that threaten the country’s environment and natural resources. NAIMOS' efforts highlight not only the importance of enforcing existing laws but also the need for vigilance in monitoring both local and foreign actors involved in illegal mining operations.
As investigations continue, these developments serve as a stark reminder that no individual or entity is above the law when it comes to protecting Ghana’s natural heritage. The government’s unwavering stance against galamsey aims to ensure sustainable resource management for future generations.
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
