The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling illegal mining through a decisive and well-coordinated taskforce operation in various areas of the Birim North District in the Eastern Region.
This initiative has led to numerous arrests, the immobilization of heavy machinery, and the recovery of cash and other items associated with illegal mining activities.
The operation commenced around 0605 hours on November 5, 2025, as the NAIMOS Taskforce set off from its base in Accra to engage in field operations aimed at addressing critical illegal mining hotspots.
At Pankese, at approximately 8:20 AM, the taskforce successfully intercepted an ongoing illegal mining operation. Initial evaluations revealed that nearby motorbike riders had notified the miners about the incoming team, prompting many to escape prior to their arrival.
The taskforce apprehended one foreign national, suspected to be a mechanic, along with four Ghanaian nationals involved in illegal mining activities on site.
Four excavators were found in total: two lacking control boards or monitors, and two with fully intact control systems. The latter were seized and immobilized to ensure they could not be used. The team successfully confiscated one car washing machine and two buckets of hydraulic oil. All individuals taken into custody were transferred to the New Abirem Police Station for additional investigation and processing.
Shortly after, around 0930 hours, the taskforce moved forward to another illegal mining site near the Jaadie River, referred to as the Anokye Site. Eight excavators were identified: four had already been stripped of their control systems, while the remaining four operational units were swiftly immobilized. The control boards and monitors discovered at the scene were seized as evidence.
The taskforce’s presence kept illegal mining operators on edge throughout the district. At approximately 1215 hours, operatives came across three suspicious individuals who appeared to be observing the team’s movements.
Intelligence gathered revealed that they were linked to a broader network aiming to orchestrate an assault on the taskforce. As operatives drew near, the group scattered, abandoning the three suspects who were later taken into custody. A search uncovered one pepper spray, one metallic chain, GHS 17,000.00 in cash, a substance believed to be Indian hemp, and multiple mobile phones.
The team subsequently arrived at Amenam around 1420 hours to conduct an inspection of a mining concession owned by Sikadwa Global Limited Company. Upon arrival, the taskforce came across individuals asserting they were on official duty, guiding foreign nationals to the site.
Further verification revealed that the company held valid legal documentation for its operations. Following additional directives, the taskforce exited the location around 1620 hours, while securing two pump-action shotguns for verification and security evaluation.
The strategic operation delivered a powerful impact on illegal mining activities in the Birim North District, as NAIMOS reinforced its dedication to bringing order back to Ghana’s mining sector.
In the face of early intelligence leaks, reportedly stemming from local motorbike riders, the taskforce exhibited remarkable composure and professionalism. They effectively dismantled numerous illegal operations, achieving this without any casualties or property damage.
The retrieval of cash, weapons, and operational gear highlights the increasing sophistication and structure of illegal mining syndicates.
NAIMOS is unwavering in its commitment to dismantle criminal networks, preserve forest reserves, and protect water bodies from ongoing degradation.
This recent operation highlights the Secretariat’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the rule of law and protecting the nation’s natural resources from exploitation. With unwavering determination, strategic collaboration, and steadfast discipline, NAIMOS consistently demonstrates its pivotal role in Ghana’s battle against illegal mining.
