A task force from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has carried out a major operation against illegal mining activities in the Berekum West District of the Bono Region, targeting affected communities including Benkasa and Amomaso.

The operation, conducted on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, followed intelligence reports of widespread environmental destruction, including the degradation of cocoa farms, forests, and farmlands, as well as severe pollution of water bodies such as the Amoma and Kyimira rivers.

Residents had earlier raised concerns over the impact of illegal mining on their livelihoods, submitting petitions to authorities and calling for urgent intervention.

At Benkasa, suspected illegal miners fled upon the arrival of the task force.

Officers intercepted three excavators and destroyed several items used in the operations, including a heavy-duty water pumping machine, a Changfang machine, and a gold washing platform.

A search of the site also led to the discovery of two pump-action guns and seven cartridges.

Makeshift structures at the site were subsequently set ablaze to prevent reuse, along with fuel supplies found in the area.

The operation was later extended to Amomaso, where three additional excavators were identified.

Two were seized, while one was disabled after key components were removed.

The team also destroyed more equipment and temporary structures linked to the illegal mining activities.

In total, five excavators were confiscated and transported to a secure holding facility in Sunyani.

The operation reportedly sparked celebrations among residents of Amomaso, who expressed relief over the swift response to their concerns.

Authorities say the exercise has helped restore confidence among affected communities.

NAiMOS has reiterated its commitment to intensifying efforts to combat illegal mining, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas such as river bodies and forest reserves.

The task force also warned against the use of hazardous chemicals, including cyanide and acids, which pose significant environmental risks.

The Secretariat has further urged the public to continue providing timely information to support ongoing operations against illegal mining across the country.