The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining with a targeted operation in the Nkawie Forest Reserve in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region, dismantling an active galamsey enclave and disabling four excavators hidden in nearby thickets.

The midday operation, carried out on Friday, 1 May 2026, followed intelligence reports of sustained illegal mining activities along the Offin River. Upon arrival, NAIMOS personnel confirmed extensive environmental degradation along the river, caused by unregulated mining operations.

The taskforce’s presence triggered a swift escape by the illegal miners, who abandoned their sites and fled into the forest. A subsequent search led to the retrieval of one pump-action gun with five live cartridges and eight water pumping machines used in the extraction process.

In a move to cripple operations, the team destroyed key mining infrastructure, including five changfang machines and three wooden gold washing platforms, while cutting and burning all water hoses connected to the mining pits.

Further reconnaissance uncovered concealed excavators hidden in dense vegetation.

Investigations revealed that some critical components had already been removed by the operators. However, NAiMOS operatives proceeded to disable the machines by removing essential parts, including control boards and oil pumps, rendering all four excavators inoperable.

The operation forms part of a broader nationwide effort by NAiMOS to combat illegal mining, protect Ghana’s water bodies, and preserve forest reserves from environmental destruction.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to sustaining pressure on illegal miners, warning that forest reserves will not serve as safe havens for such activities as enforcement operations continue across the country.