Ghana's NAIMOS Task Force, in collaboration with multiple military units, conducted a significant operation against illegal small-scale gold mining (galamsey) along the Ankobra River on September 17. The operation was confirmed by Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu through official social media channels.
The crackdown targeted illegal mining activities in the East Nzema Municipality of Ghana's Western Region. The joint force included representatives from the Western Regional Security Council, Western Naval Command, and the local East Nzema Blue Guards organization.
During the three-week operation, security personnel systematically moved along the Ankobra River banks, dismantling mining infrastructure and confiscating equipment used in illegal mineral extraction.
"A thoroughly coordinated operation resulted in the seizure of multiple tools and equipment utilized for illegal mining operations, along with the demolition of numerous makeshift structures," the official statement noted.
Security forces destroyed 20 temporary structures, eliminated 10 riverbed dredging platforms, and confiscated substantial equipment including four motorcycles, 15 pumping machines, three gas cylinders, and various other mining tools.
Local media reports indicate that illegal mining operations have caused mercury and other toxic substances to enter the local food supply, creating significant long-term public health concerns.
The term "galamsey" - derived from local languages meaning "gather and sell" - refers to illegal miners who operate without proper authorization.
This operation follows April's government measures that prohibited foreign nationals from trading gold on Ghana's domestic market and banned export of precious metals by unauthorized dealers. Authorities also revoked all licenses for purchasing and selling artisanally mined gold. These actions form part of the government's comprehensive strategy against galamsey activities. Small-scale mining operations account for approximately 40% of Ghana's total gold production, compared to concessions operated by multinational corporations. An estimated 70-80% of these small-scale mines currently operate without proper licensing.
Alexander Kholodov
