The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has achieved another major breakthrough in its ongoing nationwide campaign against illegal mining, following a successful operation at Hiawa Koofrom in the Amenfi Central District of the Western Region.

The intelligence-led mission led to the arrest of three Chinese nationals, the seizure of a pump-action gun with four cartridges, and the impoundment of two excavators being used for illegal mining activities along the Ankobrah River.

According to a statement from NAiMOS, the operation was launched after the task force received credible intelligence from an informant, including the GPS coordinates of the illegal mining site.

Acting swiftly, the team mobilised and departed for Hiawa Koofrom at approximately 0910 hours.

Upon arrival, the task force encountered several foreign and local miners who, having been tipped off by local okada riders, attempted to flee into the nearby forest.

However, three Chinese nationals were apprehended at the scene.

A Nissan Navara pick-up truck and a pump-action shotgun with four cartridges were recovered, along with mobile phones belonging to the arrested suspects.

The task force also discovered two excavators, large heaps of sand, and paydirt, clear evidence of extensive environmental destruction along the riverbank.

NAiMOS described the operation as part of its intensified efforts to combat the resurgence of illegal mining, especially along major water bodies and forest reserves.

“This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to restoring Ghana’s natural environment and holding all offenders — both local and foreign — accountable under the law,” the statement read.

The arrested suspects are currently in police custody, assisting with investigations, while the excavators and other seized items have been secured for further examination.

NAiMOS reaffirmed that it will continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies to dismantle illegal mining networks and protect Ghana’s vital natural resources from further degradation.