[REVISION HISTORY]

NAIMOS anti-illegal mining operations in Ghana

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2026-11-03 09:02 UTC → 2026-11-04 17:45 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has intensified nationwide enforcement actions against illegal mining, known as galamsey. These operations, including ‘Operation WATER SHIELD’ and ‘Operation GREEN SHIELD’, have targeted the River Tano, the Offin River, and various forest reserves. Recent enforcement has involved the destruction of chanfang machines, water pumps, and generators, alongside the arrest of numerous suspects. Violent encounters have increased during these raids. At Subin Akwaaboso on the Offin River, security forces supported by the Ghana Navy Special Boat Squadron encountered armed resistance from individuals using firearms and cutlasses, resulting in 13 arrests. In the Atiwa Forest Reserve, a deadly encounter during ‘Operation GREEN SHIELD’ left one suspect dead and four others, including three Malian nationals, in custody. Conversely, joint patrols by the Blue Water Guards, the Minerals Commission, and NAIMOS reported the successful restoration of the Greater Amanzole River in the Western Region following sustained monitoring. In a recent operation at Nipanekro in the Upper Denkyira West District, NAIMOS and the Ghana Navy Special Boat Squadron immobilized mining equipment on the River Offin. Drone footage reportedly captured individuals, some allegedly carrying pump-action guns, gathering approximately two miles from the site and threatening to confront the team. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources stated that NAIMOS is mandated to enforce the law through arrests rather than aggression, though officials noted that proportionate action may be taken if officers face imminent threats. To support these efforts, the government plans to allocate GH¢200 million to NAIMOS in the 2027 budget. Legal and territorial disputes continue to escalate. CMS-PRO Industries and A&A Southern Industries have defended their lawful acquisition of the Nsutam and Osiem mining leases, rejecting allegations of an armed takeover. Northern Ashanti Mines Limited (NAMLC) has accused NAIMOS of attempting to conceal evidence by seeking access to CCTV server rooms and has alleged that state actors facilitated the unauthorized presence of Chinese nationals on their concession. Furthermore, the Minerals Commission has moved to revoke the mining lease of Northern Ashanti Mines, citing over US$8.38 million in unpaid statutory fees. Dr. Steve Manteaw, Co-Chair of the Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI), has urged the government to negotiate payment arrangements instead of revoking the license, warning that such moves could unfairly target Ghanaian-owned companies.

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