By Ishmeal 
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested 13 suspected illegal miners during an enforcement operation at Subin Akwaaboso in the Upper Denkyira West District of the Central Region.
The operation, conducted on Sunday, November 1, 2026, targeted illegal mining activities along the Offin River, where several Chanfang machines had reportedly been mounted and deployed for mining.
The enforcement team included NAIMOS personnel and members of the Special Boat Squadron (SBS), working under the leadership of the Secretariat’s Director of Operations, Colonel Kwame Sam Appiah.
Personnel Confronted by Armed Individuals
According to NAIMOS, its personnel encountered considerable resistance from a group of individuals during the operation.
Some members of the group were reportedly wielding cutlasses, firearms and other offensive weapons, creating a security risk for the officers and other people at the scene.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 2, the Secretariat said the enforcement team exercised maximum restraint and took measures to prevent the confrontation from escalating.
Reports from the operation also indicated that gunshots were heard as some residents allegedly mobilised on motorcycles to resist the task force.
Despite the tension, the team proceeded with the exercise and arrested suspected illegal miners at the site.
NAIMOS Warns Against Attacks on Personnel
The Secretariat has warned that individuals suspected of attacking its officers or obstructing lawful enforcement operations will be referred to the appropriate authorities for further action.
NAIMOS stressed that its personnel would continue to operate within the law while taking necessary and proportionate measures to protect themselves, accompanying journalists and members of the public.
The Secretariat also called on community leaders and residents to support lawful enforcement activities and channel any concerns through the appropriate authorities.
Fight Against Illegal Mining Continues
The operation forms part of NAIMOS’ intensified efforts to disrupt illegal mining activities and protect Ghana’s rivers and other natural resources.
The Offin River has been a major focus of enforcement activities because of concerns about illegal mining and environmental degradation along its banks.
NAIMOS says it will continue working with security agencies, regulatory institutions and local communities, with support from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, to tackle illegal mining.
The 13 arrested individuals are suspected of involvement in illegal mining activities. Their guilt, if any, will be determined through the appropriate legal process.
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