Operatives of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), on Thursday, 14 May 2026, conducted a targeted riverine anti-illegal mining operation at Ewusiejo along the Butre River in the Ahanta West District of the Western Region. The operation was aimed at disrupting illegal mining activities within the area.
The operation, which commenced at approximately 0915 hours, forms part of the ongoing nationwide efforts by NAIMOS to combat illegal mining activities that continue to threaten the nation’s water bodies and the environment. The taskforce proceeded to the identified hotspot following intelligence reports on the activities of illegal miners operating along the river.
Upon arrival at the scene, the taskforce observed approximately thirty (30) individuals involved in illegal mining activities. The suspects quickly fled the area upon sighting the approaching security personnel, abandoning their equipment and operational structures in the process.
Further assessment of the site revealed several wooden washing platforms constructed along sections of the river and being used to wash mined materials directly into the water body. The team also identified one (1) changfan machine fitted with extended water-pumping hoses connected to the river. Investigations at the scene indicated that the machine was being used to pump water from the river for mining operations while releasing polluted wastewater back into the river, thereby contributing to the contamination of the water source.
In a decisive move to prevent further destruction of the environment, the taskforce dismantled and destroyed the changfan machine, water hoses, and all wooden washing platforms found at the site.
NAIMOS has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations against illegal mining activities across the country, particularly within river bodies and other ecologically sensitive areas. The Secretariat further cautioned individuals engaged in illegal mining to immediately cease such activities, stressing that continuous enforcement operations will be maintained to protect the nation’s natural resources and ensure environmental sustainability.
