A joint task team consisting of the Forestry Commission, the National Security Secretariat, and the National Anti-illicit Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) delivered a devastating blow to illicit mining syndicates in the Offin Shelter Belt Reserve, Nkawie Forest District, in a daring pre-dawn operation.
Twelve excavators were seized, five suspects, including a Chinese national, were arrested, and two pump-action shotguns were recovered from raided mining sites as a result of the crackdown, which highlights the government’s persistent commitment to ending galamsey.
After connecting with forestry officers in Nkawie, the Accra-based Taskforce stormed the reserves in the operation, which started at 4:00 AM on Wednesday, June 4, 2025.
Some of the illegal miners ran in confusion and left their equipment behind when they arrived.
To send a clear message to those who destroy the environment, the task force’s military wing set fire to the workers’ camp.
The activities will take place from Wednesday to the early hours of Friday, June 6, 2025.
Simon Mensah, Edward Addo, Aboagye Foster, and Amoah Justice were among those arrested, and identity documents from Ayogsum Agnes and Jonathan Asigre were also recovered.
The confiscated excavators were taken to the 4th Infantry Battalion Barracks for safekeeping, and the suspects were turned over to the Nkawie District Police.
Total Seizures So Far:
12 Excavators
2 Motorcycles
2 Pump-Action Guns
This most recent achievement strengthens the determination of Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, to crack down on galamsey, announcing that no one, domestic or international, will be spared in the continuous fight against illicit mining.
Multi-agency cooperation has been sparked by his leadership, guaranteeing that Ghana’s waterways and forests will not be further devastated.
As investigations continue, more information will be provided.
Source: newsthemegh.com