Operatives of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), in collaboration with the Blue Water Guards, have destroyed dozens of illegal mining equipment during a coordinated operation in the Nzema East District.
The intelligence-led exercise, conducted on April 20, 2026, focused on several illegal mining hotspots, including the “Krobo Line” enclave at Gwira Banso and sections along the Ankobra River.
According to officials, about 20 illegal miners were found actively operating along tributaries feeding the Ankobra River at Krobo Line. However, the miners fled into nearby bushes upon the arrival of the taskforce, abandoning their equipment.
The operation uncovered extensive environmental damage, including polluted water bodies and the destruction of large palm plantations due to deep mining pits.
Authorities reported that 13 changfang machines, 16 water pumping machines, multiple industrial hoses, six wooden gold-washing platforms, and 12 makeshift shelters were destroyed and set ablaze to prevent reuse.
In a related operation, another team conducted patrols along the Ankobra River from Abrodiem through Dominase to Awelezo.
At Abrodiem, six illegal miners operating with improvised boats equipped with changfang machines fled on sight of the taskforce. The equipment was retrieved and destroyed.
Further along at Dominase and Awelezo, about 15 miners were discovered working in a large pit after diverting water from the river through a constructed canal. Officials noted that the use of hazardous chemicals in the area posed significant risks to water quality and public health.
All equipment found at the sites, including additional changfang machines, water pumps, and hoses, was destroyed and burned.
NAIMOS said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities and protect Ghana’s water bodies and farmlands from degradation.
Authorities have indicated that similar operations will be intensified in affected districts to ensure compliance and safeguard the environment.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
