NAIMOS, REGSEC dismantle unlawful mining network within Oda River Forest Reserve
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), in conjunction with the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC), has successfully dismantled a significant illegal mining network operating within the Oda River Forest Reserve in the Ashanti Region.
The intelligence-driven operation, conducted on October 23, 2025, resulted in the apprehension of several illegal miners and nine armed impostors posing as National Security operatives.
According to NAIMOS, the impostors were apprehended in khaki uniforms, claiming to be acting under the command of a “Major Jabari.” A thorough search uncovered a pistol with three rounds of ammunition, a toy pistol, a pump-action shotgun, cartridges, and handcuffs — all seized as exhibits.
During the exercise, NAIMOS operatives also intercepted individuals attempting to bribe officers with GH₵120,000 for the release of arrested miners. The suspects were immediately detained for attempting to bribe law enforcement officers.
The task force subsequently uncovered an illegal mining settlement deep within the forest, featuring wooden structures and tents serving as operational bases. These structures and equipment were demolished to prevent reoccupation.
NAIMOS reported that the operation revealed extensive environmental degradation, including deforestation and polluted water bodies within the reserve.
Director of Operations Colonel Dominic Buah commended the joint effort, describing it as “a paradigm of inter-agency cooperation and enforcement excellence.”
“No individual, group, or impostor will be permitted to exploit Ghana’s natural resources with impunity,” Colonel Buah asserted.
“Through sustained partnerships with the Regional Security Councils, NAIMOS will continue to identify, dismantle, and neutralize illegal mining operations across the country to protect our forests and water bodies for future generations.”
The operation marks a major step in the government’s renewed campaign to restore degraded forest reserves and clamp down on illegal mining across the country.
