Tension has erupted at Ayikuma in the Shai-Osudoku District of the Greater Accra Region after residents and miners allegedly clashed with operatives of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) over the seizure of mining equipment. The confrontation followed an anti-galamsey operation during which a contractor and several miners were arrested for allegedly engaging in illegal mining within a large mango farm.
The operation reportedly triggered resistance from some residents and miners, who blocked the task force and prevented officers from moving the seized equipment from the area. The situation turned chaotic, leading to a standoff between the residents and the anti-illegal mining team.
Galamsey enforcement under pressure
The incident highlights the challenges facing the government’s fight against illegal mining, particularly in communities where galamsey activities are linked to local livelihoods. It also raises concerns about the safety of anti-illegal mining personnel and the enforcement of environmental regulations in areas where resistance to such operations persists.
NAIMOS has intensified its nationwide crackdown on illegal mining, conducting 738 operational activities between June 13 and September 30, 2026, covering more than 50,000 kilometres. During that period, the Secretariat recovered 74 firearms and 551 rounds of ammunition, seized excavators, pumps, vehicles and other machinery, destroyed 1,970 changfans and dismantled 863 makeshift structures linked to illegal mining.
NAIMOS warns against obstruction
NAIMOS has warned that violent attacks on state security personnel carrying out lawful duties will not be tolerated. Its spokesperson, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, said individuals suspected of attacking personnel or obstructing operations would be referred to the relevant authorities for action.
The Secretariat has also urged community leaders and residents to cooperate with law-enforcement teams and channel grievances through legal avenues rather than taking the law into their own hands.
Community engagement
NAIMOS has begun engaging communities affected by illegal mining as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against galamsey. The initiative seeks to involve traditional authorities, local government officials, opinion leaders and residents in tackling illegal mining and its effects on the environment and livelihoods.
The Secretariat says the engagements are aimed at building public confidence, addressing local concerns and improving intelligence sharing to support ongoing operations against illegal mining.
Story by Ama Frimpomaa