The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has dismantled an illegal mining operation at Ahwiren in the Bekwai Municipality. NAIMOS disabled six excavators and seized firearms during this intelligence-led operation.
This raid, conducted by the NAIMOS Manso-Adubia Team, took place between 4:30 a.m. and 11:10 a.m. on July 17, 2026. Operatives targeted a mining site situated along the headwaters of the Subin River, which flows through approximately 20 acres of farmland. An informant led the team to the site after providing intelligence about ongoing unauthorized mining activities.
Illegal mining, known as 'galamsey' in Ghana, continues to pose significant threats to the nation's environment and economy. It damages water bodies, pollutes farmlands, and destroys forests. The government has intensified efforts to curb galamsey due to its widespread negative impacts on public health and natural resources. This operation aligns with broader governmental strategies to combat environmental degradation caused by illicit mining activities.
According to a situational report, the team found six excavators and four pumping engines actively in use upon arrival. To prevent further mining, officers removed five monitors and four control boards from five excavators. The sixth excavator lacked a monitor and control board, and the team also seized two excavator ignition keys. All four pumping engines were set ablaze to render them unusable.
This decisive action highlights the government's commitment to protecting the nation's natural resources and enforcing mining regulations. Communities, investors, and environmental groups will closely monitor the long-term effectiveness of these operations. Sustained efforts are crucial to deter illegal miners and restore affected regions.
During a search of the site, operatives recovered two Adler pump-action shotguns along with 19 rounds of ammunition. Investigators found that the illegal miners had extended their activities to the headwaters of the Subin River. They had blocked the natural watercourse and created a diversion to facilitate mining. The operation occurred approximately 50 meters from the Ahwiren-Bekwai main road, raising concerns about its proximity to public infrastructure.
Further investigations revealed that the operators had submitted an application under the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Environmental Development Scheme (rCOMSDEP). However, they had not received approval to commence operations. The report indicated that the mining location did not match the coordinates provided in their application. Despite establishing community offices, the operators claimed they were not engaged in illegal mining.
NAIMOS stated that sections of the Ahwiren community expressed dissatisfaction with the mining activities. Residents cited the destruction of water bodies and the site's close proximity to the main road. Community members also voiced concerns that continued mining at the headwaters of the Subin River could lead to long-term environmental consequences. The government's fight against galamsey aims to safeguard river systems and farmlands across the country.