Some of the arrested illegal miners
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has intensified its enforcement drive against illegal mining, popularly known as “galamsey,” in the Western Region.
The Secretariat has also vowed to ensure that regulated community mining operations do not serve as a cover for illegal activities.
This renewed effort follows the recent inauguration of Community Mining Schemes in the Ahanta West and Nzema East municipalities of the Western Region.
As part of the intensified operations, a NAIMOS Task Force recently conducted an enforcement patrol in the Yakaw area of the Ahanta West Municipality.
During the patrol, several suspected illegal miners were found operating within palm plantations.
The Task Force raided the identified sites and arrested 14 suspected illegal miners, who were subsequently handed over to the Agona Police Station for further investigation.
During the operation, personnel also destroyed 19 chanfang machines, 18 water pumps, and two makeshift structures used to support the illegal mining operations.
Metal scrap and other materials from the dismantled sites were removed with the support of personnel from the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC).
The Yakaw operation demonstrates NAIMOS’ determination to extend enforcement beyond illegal mining carried out directly in rivers.
Investigations revealed that illegal miners are increasingly moving into farmlands, cocoa and palm plantations, and roadside areas. Consequently, NAIMOS has served notice that it will expand and intensify its operations across these locations.
In an official statement, the Secretariat emphasised that Community Mining Schemes provide a regulated framework for eligible miners to operate within approved areas and under prescribed conditions.
“So, illegal miners who choose to operate outside the law should expect sustained enforcement action. Their sites will be targeted, their illegal operations will be disrupted, and their equipment dealt with,” the statement warned.
“The task force will do so in accordance with applicable procedures, and any persons apprehended will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for investigation and prosecution,” the statement added.
The Secretariat noted that NAIMOS will continue to work closely with security agencies, local authorities, and other relevant institutions to ensure that responsible, lawful mining is protected.
“NAIMOS will ensure illegal mining is systematically disrupted across the Western Region and other affected parts of the country,” the statement pointed out.
From Emmanuel Opoku, Takoradi