The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has launched a renewed and intensified campaign against illegal mining activities along the River Ankobra in the Western Region, marking a significant escalation of efforts to combat this persistent problem. The initiative, spearheaded by NAIMOS, focuses on disrupting operations that pose a considerable threat to the river’s delicate ecosystem and the livelihoods of local communities.
The latest operation, targeting several illegal mining sites within the Ablebo General Area of the Ellembelle District, represents a substantial expansion of NAIMOS’s proactive approach. Three suspected individuals were apprehended and formally handed over to the Ghanaian Police force in Axim for further investigation and to determine the full scope of their involvement in these illicit activities.
NAIMOS officials confirmed the destruction of a substantial amount of machinery, specifically chanfang machines, and water pumps, which were identified as being operational on the riverbank. The precise number of chanfang machines destroyed is yet to be officially confirmed, but estimates suggest a significant reduction in operational capacity for those involved in illegal mining. Furthermore, the organization reports the destruction of two makeshift structures erected by illegal miners – further demonstrating the scale of the problem.
Prior to this intensified effort, the River Ankobra has been experiencing a sustained period of worsening pollution levels, evidenced by increased turbidity recorded in the thousands. The river’s ecological health has been severely compromised, impacting both wildlife and the region’s water supply. The situation has been exacerbated by years of unregulated mining practices, leading to significant environmental damage.
NAIMOS acknowledges the ongoing challenge of illegal mining continuing along sections of the river, despite repeated raids and preventative measures. Recognizing the critical importance of the River Ankobra, the Secretariat has undertaken a comprehensive strategy to dismantle illegal mining sites and remove equipment from the waterway. This strategic shift is intended to significantly curtail the activity of illegal miners and curtail their ability to continue operations in the affected areas.
Operational commanders at NAIMOS are emphasizing that the removal of these mining equipment will be a critical factor in reducing the overall capacity of illegal mining operations. The strategic objective is to facilitate the removal of mining infrastructure, thereby minimizing the impact on the river corridor. This initiative is being coordinated with the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), who are providing crucial support in the removal of floating mining equipment – these assets are being repurposed as scrap metal, contributing to a circular economy.
This intensified operation represents a considerable investment of resources from NAIMOS, and is expected to significantly impact the illegal mining landscape in the Western Region. The organization is committed to ensuring the long-term protection of the River Ankobra and the ecological health of the region, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable resource management. The full extent of the impact of this operation will be monitored closely as NAIMOS continues its efforts.
The operation is being viewed as a vital step in securing the future of the River Ankobra and protecting the livelihoods of the communities dependent on its resources. The government is keen to continue its efforts to combat this illegal activity and safeguard the environment.
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Source: Adom Online
