Ghana’s Anti-Galamsey Task Force intensifies operations

Ghana’s fight against illegal mining continues unabated with coordinated operations across three regions, resulting in significant seizures, arrests, and the disruption of destructive mining activities near critical water bodies.

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), a dedicated and independent Task Force set up by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), began its intensified operations on Sunday, June 15, targeting illegal miners along the Birim River in the Eastern Region.

Acting on intelligence, the task force moved into the Kyebi general area, specifically Asikam and Potrase. The miners bolted on, citing the task force, leaving their equipment and tools behind. Four excavators were seized and disabled by removing their control boards. The operation lasted until the wee hours of Monday, June 16, 2025.

On Tuesday, June 17, the task force shifted focus to the Central Region, where illegal mining was polluting the Pra River.

Accompanied by four NADMO officials, the task force raided sites in Ayittey, Agave, Assin Asempaneye, and Ntowkrom in the Assin North Municipality.

Upon spotting the task force, the illegal miners fled the scene, with some crossing the river to evade arrest. The Task Force, however, confiscated five (5) excavators, which were handed over to the Assin North District Assembly, and immobilized three (3) excavators entrenched at the site. Makeshift structures were demolished, and equipment—including generators, pumping machines, and changfans—was destroyed. An ID card belonging to one Mr. Cobinah Timothy was recovered, potentially aiding further investigations.

On Thursday, June 19, the task force moved into the Western Region, uncovering a Chinese-led galamsey syndicate spanning Western Region’s Jomoro, Ellembele, and Evalue Dwira districts.

Eleven (11) Chinese nationals were arrested, and their equipment—including thirty-two (32) excavators, changfans, and vehicles — were seized. Structures that could not be transported were destroyed.

These operations highlight the widespread devastation caused by illegal mining—polluted rivers, degraded farmland, and destroyed ecosystems. While the task force is making progress, challenges remain, including miners returning to sites or shifting operations.

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has also reiterated his resolve to combat the menace and make galamsey a thing of the past.

“We are taking back our land and protecting our rivers,” the Minister stated. “No one—foreign or local—will be allowed to destroy Ghana’s future for short-term gain. The era of impunity is over!”

The Director of Operations of the NAIMOS has indicated there will be continued raids, stricter enforcement, and community cooperation to clamp down on illegal mining.