The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities, dismantling several mining installations along the Butre River at Ewusiejo in the Ahanta West District of the Western Region.
The operation, carried out on Thursday, May 14, 2026, formed part of ongoing nationwide efforts to combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which continues to pose a serious threat to Ghana’s water bodies and the environment.
According to NAIMOS, the targeted riverine operation began at about 9:15 a.m. following intelligence reports about the activities of illegal miners operating along the Butre River.
Upon arriving at the site, operatives reportedly found about 30 individuals actively engaged in illegal mining activities along the riverbank.
However, the suspects fled the scene immediately after spotting the approaching security personnel, leaving behind their equipment and operational structures.
A further inspection of the area uncovered several wooden washing platforms constructed along sections of the river.
The structures were allegedly being used to wash mined materials directly into the water body, raising concerns over severe water pollution and environmental degradation.
The taskforce also discovered a changfan machine fitted with extended water-pumping hoses connected to the river.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the machine was being used to pump water from the Butre River for mining operations while discharging contaminated wastewater back into the river.
Authorities said the practice had significantly contributed to the pollution of the water source and posed a major threat to aquatic life and surrounding communities that depend on the river.
In a move aimed at preventing further environmental destruction, the NAIMOS taskforce dismantled and destroyed the changfan machine, water hoses, and all wooden washing platforms found at the illegal mining site.
The Secretariat has reiterated its commitment to sustaining aggressive enforcement operations against illegal mining activities, especially within river bodies and ecologically sensitive areas across the country.
NAIMOS further warned persons involved in illegal mining to immediately halt their activities or face the full force of the law, stressing that continued operations would be carried out to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources and promote environmental sustainability.
By 1960news.com
