The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has concluded a five-day intensive enforcement campaign across the Wassa Amenfi Central District in the Western Region, dismantling over ninety (90) illegal mining machines and exposing severe environmental destruction caused by galamsey activities.

The operation, carried out between Saturday, 23 May and Wednesday, 27 May 2026, targeted key illegal mining hotspots including Dominase, Jedua, Ankasie, Agona, and Kwaben.

According to NAIMOS, the exercise revealed large-scale, organised illegal mining operations that have devastated forests, polluted major rivers, and created dangerous open pits posing threats to residents.

The campaign began at Dominase, where over 100 illegal miners fled upon the arrival of the taskforce. Three excavators were immobilised, 25 changfan machines destroyed, and several supporting structures burnt. Additional items including a motorbike, machine components, and fuel were seized.

At Jedua, illegal miners were found operating within the concession of Minev Company under the alleged sponsorship of a known kingpin. Though operators fled, excavators were immobilised and equipment destroyed.

The situation at Ankasie was described as one of the most alarming, with vast forest destruction and deep water-filled pits. A search at the site led to the recovery of two pump-action firearms and fourteen rounds of ammunition, confirming the presence of armed elements.

Over 30 changfan machines and multiple engines were destroyed.

Operations at Agona uncovered extensive excavation, with over 20 changfan machines destroyed. At Kwaben, about 50 miners fled the scene as operatives arrived, leaving behind equipment which was subsequently destroyed.

NAiMOS also reported severe pollution of the River Samire and River Tano, where illegal miners had constructed wooden washing platforms and continuously discharged contaminated water back into the rivers, rendering them unsafe for human use and aquatic life.

The taskforce dismantled pumping machines, destroyed water hoses, and burned all illegal washing platforms at the sites.

NAiMOS described the environmental damage as extensive, highlighting deforestation, water contamination, land degradation, and the creation of hazardous open pits within communities.

The Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to sustained operations in the district, warning that enforcement efforts will continue until affected lands are restored and water bodies return to safe conditions.