The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested 28 suspected illegal mining operators and destroyed several pieces of mining equipment during an anti-galamsey operation at Akango in the Nzema East Municipality of Ghana’s Western Region.
The enforcement exercise targeted an illegal mining site where mining activities had reportedly extended dangerously close to a public road, raising concerns about the safety of road users and the encroachment of galamsey operations into public spaces.
According to NAIMOS, its task force initially detained approximately 195 individuals during the operation as security personnel moved to take control of the mining site and dismantle the illegal activities.
Following preliminary screening, 28 suspects believed to be foremen and owners of mining equipment were arrested and transferred to the Axim Police Station for further investigations.
NAIMOS Destroys Mining Equipment in Western Region
As part of efforts to prevent illegal mining activities from resuming, the task force destroyed several machines and equipment discovered at the site.
The items destroyed included:
- 29 chanfang mining machines.
- 37 water pumping machines.
- Five motorbikes.
- One tricycle.
Before the destruction exercise, the security personnel reportedly instructed the miners to remove their personal belongings from the affected area.
NAIMOS Intensifies Fight Against Galamsey
NAIMOS explained that the operation was necessary due to growing concerns about illegal mining activities spreading into public roads, farmlands, residential communities and other restricted areas.
The Secretariat has indicated that it will intensify intelligence-led surveillance, security patrols and follow-up operations across Nzema East to prevent illegal miners from returning to cleared sites.
The enforcement agency also plans to investigate and pursue individuals financing illegal mining operations, supplying equipment or providing other forms of support to galamsey activities.
The latest operation forms part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining in Ghana, protect public infrastructure, safeguard agricultural lands and prevent further environmental destruction.
Source: newsthemegh.com