Ghana’s National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), supported by the Blue Water Guards, has stepped up its fight against illegal mining. The joint team recently conducted offensive patrols along the Ankobra River in the Nzema East District of the Western Region. These operations led to the destruction of 25 'Changfan' machines and numerous water pumping hoses used in unlawful mining activities.
These patrols aimed to identify, disrupt, and prevent illegal mining, commonly known as 'galamsey'. Such activities pose severe environmental and security risks. The operations covered a significant stretch of the river, from Gwira Banso to Tumentu. This action directly addressed the ongoing degradation of Ghana's vital water bodies and natural resources.
This intensified crackdown is part of a broader national effort to curb the devastating impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment and economy. 'Galamsey' pollutes water sources, destroys farmlands, and harms ecosystems, threatening the livelihoods of legitimate farmers and fishermen. The government has committed significant resources to combat this menace, recognizing its long-term economic and social costs. Data indicates that illegal mining has contaminated over 80% of Ghana’s water bodies, making them unsafe for consumption and agricultural use.
A statement from NAIMOS confirmed the success of the exercise. The statement highlighted that on a Monday, between 6:00 AM and 4:40 PM, the task force launched its clampdown. At Gwira Banso, the team found about 20 individuals actively engaged in illegal mining. Upon inspection, they discovered 20 'Changfan' machines working and many hoses discharging water directly into the river.
Following operational guidelines, the task force dismantled and destroyed all 'Changfan' machines. They also set ablaze the water hoses found at the Gwira Banso site. The patrol then moved downstream to Eshiem, where another illegal mining setup was located. This site had approximately five modified boats in a mining pit, each fitted with multiple 'Changfan' machines. While operators fled to avoid arrest, the task force secured the area and destroyed all mining machinery and equipment found there.
This continuous pressure by NAIMOS signals a sustained commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural heritage. Future operations will likely continue to target illegal mining networks, particularly in critical riverine areas. This will impact the supply of minerals from unofficial channels, but also reduce Ghana's long-term environmental clean-up costs, estimated to be in the billions of GHS. Decision-makers and local communities must continue to support these efforts to preserve Ghana's environment and ensure the rule of law prevails.