The Executive Director of Patriotic Journalists Against Galamsey (PAJAG), Nana Otu Darko, has commended the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and the National Anti-illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) for their sustained efforts in combating illegal mining.

Speaking at the NAiMOS Editors’ Forum and Quarterly Press Briefing on Wednesday, March 25, Nana Darko pledged PAJAG’s full support in the ongoing fight against galamsey, stressing the need for collective action to address the growing menace.

His comments come on the back of alarming revelations by the Director of Operations at NAiMOS, Col. Dominic Buah, who warned that illegal miners are increasingly arming themselves with dangerous weapons, posing a serious threat to national security.

According to Mr Buah, authorities have already identified at least 59 weapons in the possession of illegal mining groups, with indications that more remain in circulation.

He noted that many of the recovered weapons include pump-action firearms, which he described as highly lethal and easy to operate.

He cautioned that the presence of such weapons significantly raises the risk of escalation during enforcement operations, warning that any provocation could result in attacks on security personnel or civilians.

Mr Buah further disclosed that violent confrontations have already been recorded during some operations, including an incident in which a soldier was shot in the thigh.

The officer is currently receiving treatment and recovering.

Despite these challenges, the NAiMOS Director of Operations emphasised that the Secretariat remains resolute and will not be deterred by armed resistance from illegal miners.

He reaffirmed NAiMOS’s commitment to intensifying its operations to clamp down on illegal mining while prioritising the safety of its officers and the general public.

The renewed backing from PAJAG is expected to bolster ongoing national efforts aimed at tackling illegal mining and safeguarding the country’s natural resources.