Boinso–Abrokyire, Aowin District, Western North Region — 11 April 2026
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested seven individuals—four Chinese nationals and three Ghanaians—during a targeted operation against illegal mining activities along the Boin River at Boinso–Abrokyire in the Aowin District of the Western North Region.
The operation was carried out by the NAIMOS Enchi Task Force on Saturday, 11 April 2026, between 1400 and 1630 hours. It led not only to the arrests but also to the recovery of three pump-action firearms and other equipment linked to the illegal mining operation.
Acting on credible intelligence, the task force deployed to the location to verify and disrupt reported illegal mining activities. Upon arrival, officers observed active operations being conducted in close proximity to the Boin River. Evidence indicated that minerals were being pumped and washed directly within and along the river body—activities that pose a serious threat to the water source and surrounding ecosystem.
A wooden structure located approximately 45 metres from the site was subsequently searched. The search uncovered three pump-action guns and 37 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, two Zoomlion excavator control monitors were retrieved from the site.
Structures identified as facilitating the illegal mining operations were dismantled and set ablaze by the task force.
All seven suspects were arrested at the scene without resistance.
The Chinese nationals have been identified as Lu Weiykng (born 17 March 1982), Zhou Xuanbai (born 15 May 1986), Tan Zhongqiang (born 25 February 1973), and Zhu Jiping (born 4 March 1975). The Ghanaian suspects are David Done, 32, and Naya Sampana, 44, both from Bolgatanga, as well as Santos Adaboo, 26, from Zibilla.
The Ghanaian suspects have been handed over to the Boinso Police Station for further investigation and processing.
No casualties, injuries, or security incidents were recorded during the operation.
Authorities described the discovery of firearms and ammunition as a significant and troubling development, highlighting the increasing sophistication and potential militarisation of illegal mining networks.
NAIMOS has reaffirmed its commitment to sustained monitoring and follow-up operations in the area, as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard Ghana’s water bodies, forest reserves, and natural resources from illegal exploitation.
source Erastus Asare Donkor
