Ghana’s relentless battle against illegal mining, locally known as “galamsey,” has intensified with a series of coordinated operations spearheaded by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). This dedicated task force, established under the direction of Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has embarked on a multi-regional offensive targeting illegal mining activities that are devastating the nation’s environment and polluting vital water resources. The recent operations, spanning the Eastern, Central, and Western regions, underscore the government’s commitment to eradicating this destructive practice. The seizures of heavy machinery, arrests of illegal miners, and destruction of mining infrastructure signify a significant escalation in the fight against galamsey.
The initial phase of the operation commenced in the Eastern Region, focusing on illegal mining activities along the Birim River. Acting on intelligence reports, the task force targeted the Kyebi area, specifically Asikam and Potrase, where illegal miners were operating. Forewarned of the impending raid, the miners abandoned their sites, leaving behind four excavators, which were subsequently seized and disabled by the task force. This swift action demonstrated the element of surprise employed by NAIMOS and their determination to disrupt illegal operations. The operation, extending into the early hours of Monday, June 16, 2025, effectively halted illegal mining in the targeted area, at least temporarily.
The operation then shifted to the Central Region, where the Pra River was being severely polluted by illegal mining activities. Supported by officials from the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), the task force conducted raids in several communities within the Assin North Municipality. The illegal miners, upon sighting the task force, fled the scene, some even resorting to crossing the river to evade capture. Despite the miners’ flight, the task force confiscated five excavators, which were transferred to the local district assembly. An additional three excavators were immobilized on-site. The task force also dismantled makeshift structures and destroyed various mining equipment, including generators, pumping machines, and changfans. The recovery of an ID card belonging to a suspected miner provided a potential lead for further investigation.
Moving westward, the task force uncovered a large-scale illegal mining syndicate operating across multiple districts in the Western Region, involving a significant number of Chinese nationals. This operation resulted in the arrest of eleven Chinese individuals and the seizure of a substantial amount of equipment, including 32 excavators, numerous changfans, and several vehicles. Structures that could not be readily transported were destroyed. The arrested individuals were transported to Accra and handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service for further processing and legal action. This operation highlighted the involvement of foreign nationals in Ghana’s illegal mining problem and the government’s resolve to address it.
The coordinated operations highlight the devastating impact of galamsey on Ghana’s environment. The pollution of essential rivers like the Birim and Pra, the degradation of fertile farmland, and the destruction of delicate ecosystems are all direct consequences of this illicit activity. While the task force’s efforts have yielded positive results, significant challenges remain. The tendency of miners to return to previously raided sites or simply relocate their operations to new areas necessitates ongoing vigilance and sustained enforcement. The cooperation of local communities will also be crucial in providing intelligence and supporting long-term solutions.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s unyielding commitment to combating illegal mining and making galamsey a relic of the past. His strong statement, “We are taking back our land and protecting our rivers,” underscores the determination to reclaim Ghana’s natural resources from illegal exploitation. The declaration that “No one—foreign or local—will be allowed to destroy Ghana’s future for short-term gain” sends a clear message that the era of impunity for illegal miners is over. The Director of NAIMOS has indicated that the operations will continue, enforcement will be strengthened, and community involvement will be fostered to effectively clamp down on illegal mining activities and safeguard Ghana’s environment for future generations. The focus will be on sustained pressure, intelligence gathering, and community collaboration to ensure long-term success in this crucial battle.
