The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested 19 suspected illegal miners during an intelligence-led operation at Mpohor Fiase in the Western Region following reports of rampant illegal mining activities near the community’s police station.
The operation, carried out on Wednesday, July 29, followed complaints from residents, traditional leaders, and affected farmers over the increasing presence of illegal miners in the area.
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According to NAIMOS, the Task Force conducted reconnaissance before launching coordinated raids on two major illegal mining sites and several smaller locations within the district.
During the operation, officers destroyed 16 chanfang machines, nine water pumps, and three makeshift structures used in illegal mining activities. An excavator found at one of the sites was also disabled after critical components were removed to prevent further use.
The Task Force also recovered a pump-action shotgun with four rounds of ammunition from one suspect, while another was found in possession of GH¢120,000 in cash.
All 19 suspects, together with the seized items, are in custody to assist with investigations and possible prosecution.
NAIMOS reaffirmed its commitment to sustained intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling illegal mining networks and protecting Ghana’s land and natural resources. The Secretariat also urged those engaged in illegal mining to abandon the practice and encouraged the public to continue providing credible information to support the fight against galamsey.
