Accra:The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has taken significant action against illegal mining activities, dismantling 1,970 Changfans and 863 makeshift structures from June 13 to September 30, 2026, as announced by Colonel Kwame Sam Appiah, Director of Operations.
According to Ghana News Agency, these operations have considerably disrupted illegal mining infrastructures nationwide. During this period, NAIMOS also recovered 74 firearms, 551 rounds of ammunition, and seized various machinery including excavators and vehicles used in illegal mining operations. Arrested suspects have been handed over to authorities for further investigation and prosecution.
Col. Appiah emphasized NAIMOS' commitment to dismantling illegal mining networks, safeguarding critical water bodies, and supporting environmental recovery efforts. He highlighted that the Secretariat's operations spanned 738 activities covering approximately 50,662 kilometers across multiple regions, supported by strategically located operational bases.
NAIMOS has expanded its focus to include illegal sand winning and stone mining activities, recognizing them as emerging threats. Under Operation Water Shield, efforts commenced along the Birim River and are set to extend to other major river systems. Collaborating with the Ghana Navy, NAIMOS plans to deploy a dedicated riverine unit on the Ankobra River to deter illegal activities.
Furthermore, Operation Green Shield will be launched to protect the Atiwa Forest Reserve, aiming to combat illegal mining and safeguard watersheds. This initiative will involve clearing illegal activities, stabilizing areas, and transferring protection duties to the Forestry Commission.
Col. Appiah reiterated the importance of intelligence-led, joint operations to secure watersheds and ensure accountability. He called for support from media, civil society, and local communities in the anti-galamsey campaign to achieve measurable environmental recovery.