The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has stepped up its nationwide fight against illegal mining with a series of coordinated raids along the Agona Nkwanta–Esiama highway corridor in the Western Region.

The operation, conducted between 1020hrs and 1530hrs on Wednesday, targeted persistent galamsey activities taking place dangerously close to the main road, posing both environmental and public safety risks.

According to NAiMOS, approximately 40 illegal miners were found operating openly at sites located less than 40 meters from the highway.

The miners were actively extracting and processing gold using multiple chanfang machines, supported by water pumping systems and extensive hose networks drawing water from nearby sources.

Authorities say the activities have resulted in severe pollution of water bodies and extensive environmental degradation.

A further assessment revealed that a palm plantation had been significantly destroyed, while large portions of land along the highway had been weakened, creating опасous conditions for motorists, pedestrians, and other road users.

In response, the task force dismantled and destroyed all illegal mining equipment identified at the site. Items destroyed included twelve (12) chanfang machines, eight (8) water pumping machines, four (4) wooden gold-washing platforms, several industrial water hoses, and multiple gold trapping carpets.

Two motorbikes belonging to the illegal miners were also confiscated.

The Secretariat described the situation as a clear indication of continued defiance by illegal miners despite ongoing enforcement efforts. NAIMOS emphasized the urgent need for intensified public education, increased surveillance, and stronger enforcement measures to curb the menace and protect both the environment and critical road infrastructure.

NAiMOS has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations across the country to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.