The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) arrested 40 suspects and seized GHS 120,000 in cash during a week-long operation against illegal mining. The crackdown also resulted in the confiscation of excavators, weapons, and other equipment. These operations targeted illegal mining activities across six mining-intensive regions of Ghana.
The operations, conducted from Monday, July 27 to Sunday, August 2, 2026, focused on disrupting the financial and logistical networks supporting illegal mining, locally known as 'galamsey'. NAIMOS concentrated its efforts on forest and riverine areas, including the Ankobra, Bia, Torya, Tano, and Butre rivers. The initiative also targeted reclaimed mining sites and cocoa farms, which are often affected by these destructive activities.
Illegal mining poses a significant threat to Ghana's environment, particularly its water bodies and forest reserves. The widespread destruction of land and pollution of rivers impacts agriculture, public health, and the nation's long-term economic sustainability. The government has intensified its fight against galamsey, recognizing its severe economic and ecological consequences. This recent operation underscores the ongoing commitment to curb these illicit activities.
NAIMOS reported that the joint operations led to significant seizures of illegal miners' operational logistics. The secretariat also identified individuals suspected of financing and supporting these activities. Community members, however, often show reluctance to provide information due to fears of intimidation and reprisals from illegal miners.
In one specific incident on July 29, NAIMOS personnel arrested eight suspects at Sikaniasem. This group included two Chinese nationals, Luo Xiaoqiang, 47, and Fuxue Qiang, 48, alongside six Ghanaians. The operation led to the seizure of one excavator, a Toyota Land Cruiser, and a single-barrel 12-gauge shotgun. Troops also destroyed 14 water pumps and seven Chanfang machines, which are commonly used in illegal mining.
In the Western Region, operations on July 29 led to the arrest of 19 Ghanaian suspects in Tarkwa Nsuaem, Mpohor, and Ellembelle. Personnel recovered GHS 120,000 from one suspect, Isaac Amponsah. Other items seized included an excavator, three excavator control boards, and a pump-action shotgun with 19 cartridges. These items highlight the sophisticated nature of some illegal mining operations.
Further operations on July 30 in the Wassa Amenfi West District saw suspects flee upon spotting troops. However, personnel seized abandoned equipment, including seven motorbikes and two water pumps. An excavator was also rendered inoperable by removing its electrical components. These actions aim to dismantle the operational capacity of illegal miners.
The intelligence gathered during this week-long operation will support further actions against suspected illegal miners, their financiers, and collaborators. This ongoing effort by NAIMOS seeks to dismantle the entire network that sustains galamsey, rather than just removing equipment. The focus on intelligence-led operations represents a strategic shift to address the root causes and enablers of illegal mining in Ghana.
The economic implications of illegal mining are vast, including lost revenue for the state, environmental degradation costing millions in remediation, and threats to the cocoa industry. The government's continued efforts are crucial for protecting Ghana's natural resources and ensuring sustainable economic development. The success of these operations will depend on sustained enforcement and community cooperation.