Two personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) have sustained gunshot injuries following an attack by an armed mob during an anti-galamsey operation at Manso Keniago in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, when a NAIMOS task force encountered violent resistance while transporting excavators seized during an operation to a designated location for safekeeping.
In a statement, NAIMOS disclosed that its officers came under attack from an armed group that allegedly attempted to forcibly prevent the movement of the confiscated excavators.
The Secretariat explained that the task force, faced with the hostile situation, fired warning shots in an effort to disperse the attackers and prevent further escalation.
However, two officers sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation.
NAIMOS Condemns Attack on Anti-Galamsey Officers
NAIMOS has strongly condemned the attack, describing the violent resistance against its personnel as unacceptable.
The Secretariat cautioned individuals and groups against threatening, attacking or obstructing officers carrying out their legally mandated responsibilities.
It stressed that attacks, intimidation and other forms of violence directed at its personnel during anti-illegal mining operations would not be tolerated.
The agency further reaffirmed its determination to intensify the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, despite threats and resistance from individuals and groups opposed to its enforcement activities.
NAIMOS Vows to Intensify Fight Against Illegal Mining
The Secretariat assured the public that the incident would not discourage its efforts to combat illegal mining and protect Ghana’s natural resources.
It maintained that its personnel would continue conducting lawful anti-galamsey operations across the country as part of the government’s broader efforts to tackle illegal mining activities.
The incident has once again highlighted the security challenges confronting anti-illegal mining enforcement teams as they work to seize equipment and disrupt illegal mining operations in affected communities.
NAIMOS has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring that individuals involved in illegal mining do not undermine efforts to protect Ghana’s environment and water bodies.
Source: newsthemegh.com