Five arrested in NAIMOS crackdown on illegal mining at Akyem Oda

A joint taskforce from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested five Chinese nationals following a series of coordinated raids on illegal mining sites at Akyem Oda in the Birim Central Municipality of the Eastern Region.

The operation, which commenced on Monday, December 29, at about 1:40 pm, targeted illegal mining activities along sections of the Birim River, where suspects were found actively mining and washing ore directly into the water body.

During the exercise, two excavators discovered at the sites were destroyed, while a Toyota Hilux pickup and a Toyota Land Cruiser allegedly used by the suspects were seized by the task force.

Several makeshift structures erected for the illegal operations were also dismantled and destroyed, together with water pumping machines and other mining equipment.

The arrested suspects are currently in custody to assist with investigations and will be processed in accordance with the law.

NAIMOS explained that the operation forms part of its intensified festive-season crackdown on illegal mining activities, particularly along major rivers and water bodies, to prevent further environmental degradation and pollution.

The Secretariat has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the fight against illegal mining and safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources.