The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has detained seven individuals—four Chinese nationals and three Ghanaians—during an anti-galamsey operation along the Boin River in the Aowin District of the Western North Region.
The arrests followed a coordinated swoop by the NAIMOS Enchi Task Force on Saturday April 11,afternoon, between 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
The operation also led to the seizure of three pump-action guns, 37 rounds of ammunition, and equipment believed to be used in illegal mining activities.
According to officials, the task force acted on intelligence about ongoing illegal mining near the Boin River.
Upon arrival at Boinso–Abrokyire, operatives found active mining operations dangerously close to the water body.
Evidence at the scene suggested that mineral extraction processes, including pumping and washing, were being carried out directly in and around the river, posing a serious risk to the environment.
A nearby wooden structure, located about 45 metres from the mining site, was searched during the operation.
Inside, officers retrieved the firearms and ammunition, as well as two excavator control monitors linked to the operation.
Authorities also dismantled and burned down structures believed to have been used to support the illegal mining activities.
All seven suspects were arrested without resistance.
The foreign nationals were identified as Lu Weiykng (44), Zhou Xuanbai (39), Tan Zhongqiang (53), and Zhu Jiping (51).
The Ghanaian suspects—David Done, 32; Santos Adaboo, 26; and Naya Sampana, 44—are all from the Upper East Region.
The Ghanaian suspects have since been handed over to the Boinso Police Station for further investigation.
NAIMOS described the discovery of firearms at the site as a troubling development, highlighting the increasing sophistication and potential threat posed by illegal mining networks.
Officials say this will shape future enforcement strategies in the area.
The Secretariat has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations to curb illegal mining and protect Ghana’s natural resources, particularly water bodies and forest reserves, from further destruction.
By 1960news.com
