The Ghana Police Service has intensified investigations into the violent incident involving the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) in Hwidiem, Ahafo Region.
The Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has ordered the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters to take over the case, emphasizing the seriousness of the matter.
In a related development, Hon. Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, Member of Parliament for Asutifi North, has been invited to assist in ongoing investigations.
The MP is alleged to have incited the mob and obstructed the NAIMOS team during the operation.
Details of the incident indicate that on Saturday, November 1, 2025, NAIMOS operatives intercepted illegal miners near Bronikrom and successfully arrested several suspects. Items recovered from the suspects include a Smith & Wesson pistol, two magazines, 21 rounds of 9mm ammunition, an unregistered Range Rover, an unregistered Toyota RAV4, and multiple mobile phones.
As the team was preparing to transfer the suspects to Hwidiem Police Station, the Member of Parliament reportedly arrived with a crowd demanding their release. When police refused, the group forcibly removed the handcuffs from the suspects and pursued the NAIMOS officers from the scene.
According to reports, the mob, estimated to number around 600 and allegedly incited by the MP, later stormed the Hwidiem Police Station, demanding the release of the detainees and seizing vehicles parked outside.
They vandalized the Director of Operations’ vehicle, damaged parts of the police station, and threatened to set the station ablaze.
Reinforcements from the Ahafo Regional Police Command, along with military personnel and the Hwidiem Zongo Chief, intervened to restore order. The situation was eventually brought under control, with the NAIMOS team evacuated safely. The Zongo Chief’s vehicle was damaged during the operation, but there were no reports of injuries.
The Ghana Police Service has issued a strong condemnation of the attacks, warning against interference with law enforcement activities. A special task force has been deployed to apprehend those responsible and ensure they face the full legal consequences of their actions.
Authorities reaffirm their commitment to enforcing the law and safeguarding public order amid ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining activities in the region.
Source: www.Kumasimail/Kwadwo Owusu
