Operatives of Ghana’s National Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) in the Western North Region, have arrested 7 illegal miners, following intelligence from the District Chief Executive (DCE) for the Bia West District.
The Blue Water Guards personnel stationed at Bia West District also supported the operation on Sunday, 10 May 2026, at about 0930 hours.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the NAIMOS team proceeded to the Akaatiso general area, where the illegal activities were reportedly taking place.
During the operation, the team discovered two illegal mining pits at a location known as “The Point”, identified as a cocoa farm allegedly sold to the illegal miners for mining purposes, and had devastated vast lands and forest in the area.
The suspects arrested are;
1. Jacob Mensah 34yrs, Akofi Ebuakwa
2. Yaw Prince 25yrs, Bonsu
3. Nuhu Jafaru 21yrs
4. Darko Richmond 26yrs, Sunyani
5. Nuhu Mumuni 35yrs, Bugri
6. Nana Yaw Donkor 29yrs, Anomabo
7. Emmanuel Namle 20yrs Wa.
The operation also led to the destruction and burning of the following equipment found at the site:
* 2 Changfang machines
* 4 water pumping machines
* Gold washing boards
* Carpets
* Water hoses
While returning from the initial operation site, the NAIMOS team encountered another group of individuals attempting to establish a mining base within the area.
Upon spotting the NAIMOS operatives, the suspects fled the scene, abandoning their equipment, which were subsequently destroyed through burning by the team.
The 7 arrested suspects were later handed over to the Akaatiso Police Station for further investigation and prosecution.
