The Director of Communications at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, has announced extensive operations by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and the Blue Water Guards in the Western and Western North Regions as part of increased national efforts to combat illegal mining.
During a press conference in Accra, Ms. Mawuenyefia stated that this announcement is part of a new weekly briefing series from the Ministry’s Communications Directorate, aimed at keeping the public updated on the progress in the battle against galamsey.
She disclosed that the recent coordinated operations have dismantled significant illegal mining networks, revealed foreign financiers, and restored polluted rivers and forest reserves in various districts.
Gangway Falls — A Criminal Haven Erased
At dawn on October 5, 2025, armed NAIMOS operatives raided the infamous Gangway area in Aboso, Prestea-Huni Valley District — a center for illegal miners, drug dealers, and gamblers.
The operation resulted in the destruction of over 15 water-pumping machines, three Changfang dredgers, a generator, and numerous makeshift structures. Additionally, eleven wraps of Indian hemp were confiscated.
Ankobra River Brought Back to Life
In collaboration with the Nzema East Blue Water Guards, NAIMOS eliminated illegal mining activities along the Ankobra River, stretching from Gwira Eshiam to Anyinase. Over 100 makeshift camps were destroyed, seven dredging machines were taken out of commission, and a Hyundai excavator was rendered unusable. The previously blocked Kamei Stream was also reopened.
“This is just the start. We are committed to restoring Ghana’s rivers and safeguarding the lives that rely on them,” Ms. Mawuenyefia said.
Foreign Financiers Taken Down in Jomoro Forest Reserve
On October 8, 2025, NAIMOS agents conducted a raid in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in Jomoro, apprehending two Chinese individuals believed to be funding an illegal mining operation disguised as a community mining initiative. A Toyota Land Cruiser V8, GHC 10,050, and communication equipment were confiscated, and four excavators were immobilized.
Cape Three Points — Forests Preserved, 28 Arrested
A concluding operation at the Cape Three Points Forest Reserve resulted in the arrest of 28 illegal miners and the confiscation of mining equipment. Significant damage to forest cover was revealed during the operation.
Overall, NAIMOS operations destroyed or confiscated six excavators, 65 water-pumping machines, seven dredgers, narcotics, mercury, and over 120 illegal structures across all sites.
Gunfire at Tandan River
In the meantime, members of the Blue Water Guards faced gunfire from armed illegal miners during an operation along the Tandan River in the Ellembelle District. Despite the assault, six dredging machines and five motorbikes were seized, and several illegal sites were dismantled.
A Renewed National Commitment
Ms. Mawuenyefia reiterated that the government is unwavering in its goal to eradicate galamsey for good.
“This is a national mission — not just a one-time operation. The battle against galamsey will continue until every river, forest, and community is safe once more.”
Through these coordinated enforcement actions, NAIMOS and its partners have delivered a clear message: Ghana’s natural resources will no longer be held hostage by illegal miners and their financiers.