Pankese, Eastern Region — January 4, 2026
A task force of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested two Chinese nationals for engaging in illegal mining activities at Pankese in the Birim North District of the Eastern Region.
The suspects, identified as Li Yongjin and Nou Chin Haw, were apprehended on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at about 9:45 a.m., during an anti-galamsey operation by a NAIMOS task force deployed in the region.
According to NAIMOS, the suspects were actively involved in unauthorized mining operations that had resulted in extensive degradation of forest reserves and cocoa farmlands in the area. The activities have also led to severe pollution of nearby water bodies, including sections of the Birim River, a critical source of water for surrounding communities.
During the operation, the task force immobilised two excavators found at the site by removing their monitors and control boards, rendering the machines inoperable. This action was taken due to the immediate unavailability of low-bed trucks to transport the equipment.
The task force further dismantled and destroyed assorted illegal mining equipment and demolished makeshift structures erected to support the illicit operations. The structures were subsequently set ablaze under controlled conditions.
In addition, officers seized a Toyota Tundra pickup truck, bearing registration number AS 8120-20, which was found at the site and believed to have been used in connection with the illegal mining activities.
The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to be processed for prosecution in accordance with Ghana’s mining and environmental laws.
Story By: Sheila Otuo-Baffour