NAIMOS process pressure disrupts unlawful mining operations alongside Ankobra River – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

Illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey” in West Africa, remains a critical environmental threat to Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves. In a decisive move to safeguard the ecological integrity of the Western and Western North regions, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has launched a rigorous enforcement exercise. On December 31, 2025, the task force targeted illegal mining operations along the banks of the Ankobra River in the Gwira Banso area. This operation highlights the government’s intensified “process pressure” strategy to dismantle illegal mining networks before the turn of the new year. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the operation, the environmental context, and the broader implications for anti-galamsey enforcement.

Key Points

Background

The Menace of Galamsey

Illegal mining in Ghana has evolved into a complex socio-economic and environmental crisis. “Galamsey” involves the extraction of gold and other minerals using rudimentary tools and hazardous chemicals like mercury and cyanide. These chemicals seep into the soil and water systems, causing long-term damage to aquatic life and posing severe health risks to local communities. The Ankobra River, a major tributary in the Western Region, has historically suffered from the turbidity and chemical pollution caused by these activities.

Establishment of NAIMOS

To combat this pervasive issue, the Government of Ghana established the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). This body is tasked with coordinating the efforts of the Ghana Police Service, the military, and other security agencies to enforce mining laws. NAIMOS operates under a “zero tolerance” mandate, utilizing intelligence-led operations to identify and dismantle illegal mining syndicates. The “process pressure” mentioned in recent reports refers to the sustained and aggressive operational tempo maintained by the secretariat to ensure continuous pressure on illegal miners.

The Ankobra River Ecosystem

The Ankobra River is a vital natural resource for the Evalue Gwira District and beyond. It serves as a source of drinking water, supports agricultural irrigation, and sustains local fisheries. However, the river’s proximity to rich gold deposits has made it a hotspot for illegal miners. The degradation of the riverbanks and the siltation of the river channel have threatened biodiversity and the livelihoods of communities that depend on the water body.

Analysis

Operational Tactics and Execution

The December 31 raid in Gwira Banso demonstrated a tactical shift in anti-galamsey operations. By striking at the end of the year, NAIMOS aimed to disrupt the financial flows of illegal miners who often seek to maximize profits during the festive season. The operation was intelligence-driven, relying on reports of chronic illegal mining activity. Upon arrival, the task force encountered resistance in the form of fleeing miners, a common occurrence that underscores the cat-and-mouse nature of these enforcement drives.

Impact on Infrastructure

Destroying the physical infrastructure of illegal mining is a crucial component of the NAIMOS strategy. The destruction of dredging platforms and chanfang machines significantly raises the cost of re-establishing operations for miners. By burning makeshift structures, the task force removed the logistical bases that allow miners to operate for extended periods in remote areas. This “scorched earth” approach, while aggressive, is deemed necessary to break the cycle of environmental destruction.

Environmental Significance

The focus on the Ankobra River is significant. Unlike some inland water bodies, the Ankobra is directly connected to the Atlantic Ocean. Pollution here does not remain localized; it affects the coastal ecosystem and the fishing industry. The operation serves as a protective measure for the river’s biodiversity. The “process pressure” ensures that the river does not become a permanent sacrifice zone for illicit wealth generation.

Practical Advice

For Local Communities

• Report Suspicious Activity: Residents near the Ankobra River should remain vigilant and report any signs of dredging or excavator activity to local authorities or NAIMOS immediately.
• Community Watch Committees: Form local environmental protection committees to monitor riverbanks and provide intelligence to security agencies.
• Health Precautions: Avoid using water from the Ankobra River for drinking or cooking immediately following such raids, as residual chemicals from destroyed mining equipment may be present.

For Artisanal Miners

• Seek Legal Permits: Engage with the Minerals Commission to acquire a legal concession or join a licensed small-scale mining cooperative.
• Adopt Green Technologies: Explore mercury-free mining techniques and responsible reclamation methods that are sanctioned by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• Understand the Law: Be aware that operating heavy machinery (chanfang/dredgers) in river bodies is strictly prohibited and carries severe legal penalties, including imprisonment.

FAQ

Conclusion

The NAIMOS operation along the Ankobra River on December 31, 2025, represents a critical victory in the ongoing war against illegal mining. By dismantling dredging platforms and burning illegal structures in Gwira Banso, the task force has dealt a significant blow to the operators destroying the Western Region’s water bodies. However, the sustainability of these gains depends on continued “process pressure” and the active participation of local communities. Protecting the Ankobra River requires a holistic approach that combines rigorous enforcement with legal alternatives for miners and community education. As we move into 2026, the resilience of Ghana’s water bodies remains a barometer of the nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Sources

• Life Pulse Daily: Report on NAIMOS operations along the Ankobra River (Published: 2026-01-02).
• Minerals Commission of Ghana: Guidelines on Legal Small-Scale Mining.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Reports on the Impact of Galamsey on Ghana’s Water Bodies.
• Government of Ghana: Press releases regarding the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) mandate.