Accra: Colonel Eric Amponsah Buah, Coordinator of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), has called for intensified public support against illegal mining, citing threats to water bodies and national security. Addressing journalists at the NAIMOS Editors' Forum and quarterly press briefing in Accra, he said illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, continued to endanger vital resources.
According to Ghana News Agency, Colonel Buah urged citizens, the media, and stakeholders to 'join hands and campaign' against the menace, adding that success in the fight would be measured by the restoration of clean water bodies. He warned that current pollution levels could result in severe water shortages and increased treatment costs.
Colonel Buah explained that NAIMOS operations were intelligence-led, relying on informants, including traditional leaders and community members, for real-time information to support targeted interventions. The Secretariat collaborates with the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, and the National Intelligence Bureau to enhance operational effectiveness.
Petitions from communities, chiefs, and civil society organisations are assessed by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and forwarded to NAIMOS for action. Several excavators, weapons, and other equipment have been seized during operations, with assurances that all confiscated items remain intact and will be accounted for by the appropriate authorities.
He expressed concern about the proliferation of illegal weapons at galamsey sites, describing it as a major national security risk. Colonel Buah indicated that personnel would act in self-defence when threatened, as the presence of weapons could trigger violence.
The arrest and processing of foreign nationals involved in illegal mining, with many deported and blacklisted, were also noted. Additionally, cases involving minors at some sites have been referred to social protection agencies.
On environmental recovery, Colonel Buah stated that NAIMOS is supervising reclamation works in degraded areas, including over 800 acres of land at Manso-Nkwanta in the Ashanti Region. Seized equipment is being repurposed for agriculture, and permanent deployments have begun across key mining hotspots, with intensified operations along major river bodies, including the Ankobra and Pra.
Colonel Buah warned illegal miners to desist and take advantage of the Government's planned cooperative mining schemes or face strict enforcement measures. He urged the media to continue supporting the campaign against illegal mining by providing credible information to aid operations.
NAIMOS is a government-coordinated operational body under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources tasked with combating illegal mining in Ghana. Its operations combine intelligence gathering, community engagement, enforcement, and environmental restoration in collaboration with security agencies and local stakeholders.