NAIMOS Arrests Chinese and Burkinabè Nationals in Illegal Mining Crackdown – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

On 8 October 2025, Ghana’s National Anti‑Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) announced a coordinated raid that led to the arrest of two Chinese nationals and the interception of several Burkinabè workers accused of engaging in galamsey—the local term for illegal small‑scale gold mining. The operations, carried out in the Western North and Western Regions, underscore the government’s intensified effort to protect forest reserves, rivers, and local communities from the environmental and social damage caused by unregulated mining.

This article provides a comprehensive, SEO‑optimized overview of the crackdown, analyses its implications, and offers practical guidance for stakeholders who may be affected by Ghana’s anti‑galamsey policies.

Analysis

Operational Details of the Western North Raid

The NAIMOS task force received intelligence that illegal mining activities were occurring inside the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve near Jomoro, along the banks of the Tano River. Forest guards initially delayed entry, but operatives forced access after confirming the presence of a “vigorous mining website” (i.e., an active mining site). The team discovered:

• Four excavators—three already immobilised and one disabled on site.
• Evidence of river diversion, two heavy‑duty water pumps, and twelve makeshift mining structures, all of which were destroyed.
• Cash totaling GH₵ 10,050, multiple cell phones, radio equipment, gasoline drums, and administrative boards.

During the raid, a Toyota Land Cruiser V8 attempted to flee. Two Chinese nationals aboard were apprehended, while a third suspect escaped.

Western Region Operation at Bugart Mining

A separate NAIMOS operation took place at Bugart Mining near Essipong (close to Asankrangwa) in the Western Region. Investigators found Burkinabè workers operating near the Kwama stream and a main road. Although the site owners claimed a mining licence issued in 2012, NAIMOS raised concerns about the legality of employing foreign nationals on the site. The team immobilised a CAT excavator and instructed the owners to report to the Accra headquarters on 9 October 2025 with all Burkinabè workers for verification.

Underlying Motives and Alleged Sponsorship

Preliminary investigations suggest the two Chinese nationals were acting as financiers and logistical coordinators for local galamsey operations. NAIMOS alleges they were operating under the guise of the Jomoro Community Mining Project, a venture purportedly authorised by the local chief, Nana Kwame Nkansah. The agency warned that any foreign or domestic sponsor who aids illegal mining will be prosecuted.

Summary

In two rapid, intelligence‑driven raids, NAIMOS dismantled illegal mining infrastructure, seized equipment and cash, and arrested foreign nationals linked to galamsey in Ghana’s Western North and Western Regions. The operations demonstrate the government’s commitment to enforcing the Minerals and Mining Act 2006 and protecting critical ecosystems such as the Tano River and forest reserves.

Key Points

Practical Advice

For Community Leaders and Chiefs

Community leaders should verify the legitimacy of any mining licence presented by operators. This can be done by cross‑checking with the Ghana Minerals Commission or the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. If a licence is missing or questionable, leaders are encouraged to report the activity to NAIMOS or the local police.

For Small‑Scale Miners

Miners who wish to operate legally must:

1. Apply for a Small‑Scale Mining Licence (SSML) through the Minerals Commission.
2. Obtain a Land Use Permit from the Forestry Commission when operating near forest reserves.
3. Comply with environmental regulations, including proper waste disposal and river protection measures.
4. Maintain transparent financial records to avoid accusations of “financing galamsey.”

For Foreign Investors and Contractors

Foreign nationals planning to invest in Ghana’s mining sector should:

• Secure a foreign investment licence from the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC).
• Partner only with licensed Ghanaian operators.
• Conduct thorough due‑diligence on any community‑based projects, ensuring they are not a front for illegal mining.

Points of Caution

While the crackdown targets illegal operations, legitimate small‑scale miners may inadvertently become entangled if they lack proper documentation. It is crucial to:

• Avoid operating in protected forest reserves without explicit permission.
• Refrain from using heavy machinery (e.g., excavators, water pumps) without a valid licence.
• Stay informed about local enforcement actions, as NAIMOS conducts regular surveillance and surprise raids.

Comparison

Chinese vs. Burkinabè Involvement

Both groups were found to be part of broader galamsey networks, yet their roles appear distinct:

Illegal vs. Legal Small‑Scale Mining

Legal small‑scale mining in Ghana adheres to the following standards:

• Issued licences (SSML) and land permits.
• Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.
• Compliance with the Ghana Minerals and Mining Act 2006 and the Forestry Commission Act 1999.

In contrast, illegal mining typically bypasses these requirements, leading to:

• Deforestation and loss of biodiversity.
• River siltation and mercury contamination.
• Loss of government revenue and increased community conflicts.

Legal Implications

Under the Minerals and Mining Act 2006 (Act 703), operating without a licence constitutes a criminal offence punishable by up to five years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to GH₵ 500,000. Additionally, the Forestry Commission Act 1999 criminalises unauthorised activities within forest reserves, with penalties ranging from GH₵ 50,000 to GH₵ 200,000 and potential imprisonment.

Foreign nationals found guilty of financing or facilitating illegal mining may also be subject to the Immigration Act 2009, which allows for deportation and bans on future entry into Ghana.

NAIMOS’s public statements indicate that the agency will pursue prosecution for all parties involved, regardless of nationality, reinforcing the government’s resolve to curb galamsey.

Conclusion

The October 2025 NAIMOS operations represent a decisive step in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining. By seizing equipment, confiscating cash, and arresting foreign financiers, the task force sent a clear message: illegal gold extraction will not be tolerated, especially when it threatens vital ecosystems and undermines the rule of law. Stakeholders—from community leaders to foreign investors—must align their activities with Ghana’s mining regulations to avoid legal repercussions and contribute to sustainable development.

FAQ

Sources

• National Anti‑Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) press release, 8 October 2025.
• Ghana Minerals and Mining Act 2006 (Act 703).
• Forestry Commission Act 1999.
• Immigration Act 2009.
• Life Pulse Daily article: “NAIMOS arrests Chinese and Burkinabè nationals in illegal mining crackdown,” published 9 October 2025.
• Ghana Minerals Commission website – licensing procedures and guidelines.