The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has carried out a major operation against illegal mining activities along the Birim River, leading to the arrest of five Chinese nationals in Akyem Oda in the Birim Central Municipality.
The raid, conducted on Monday, December 29, targeted several galamsey sites operating along the riverbanks. During the operation, officers seized and immobilised two excavators believed to have been used for illegal mining. A Toyota Hilux and a Toyota Land Cruiser linked to the suspects were also impounded.
NAIMOS operatives dismantled and destroyed makeshift structures at the sites, as well as water pumps and other mining equipment used in the illicit operations.
The Secretariat said the action forms part of intensified efforts to clamp down on illegal mining, particularly along major water bodies, which continue to suffer severe environmental degradation.
NAIMOS has reiterated its resolve to sustain the crackdown throughout the festive season and beyond, stressing that individuals engaged in illegal mining and pollution of water resources will be dealt with in accordance with the law.