The Divisional Chief of Jomoro in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region, Nana Kwame Nkansah II, has retracted and apologised for comments he made against the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) following a recent anti-galamsey operation in his area.

The apology comes after the NAIMOS Task Force conducted an operation at the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, which led to the arrest of two Chinese nationals and the seizure of a Land Cruiser V8 vehicle.

In an earlier press release, Nana Nkansah II had questioned NAIMOS’s decision to carry out the raid and criticised the credibility of the taskforce.

NAIMOS arrests two Chinese for illegal mining in Tano Anwia forest

However, in a new statement issued from his office on October 13, 2025, the chief explained that after consulting with his elders and opinion leaders, he realised his earlier comments were made in error.

“After consulting with my elders and some opinion leaders, I concluded that the action taken by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force was appropriate, and I would like to retract and apologise to the various key stakeholders who may have been offended by my statement in the aftermath,” he stated.

He acknowledged that the operation was legitimate and in line with national efforts to combat illegal mining near riverbanks and forest reserves.

“The raid was legitimate because it supported the government’s operational policy of combating illegal mining near riverbanks and forest reserve areas,” he indicated.

Nana Nkansah II further commended the NAIMOS Task Force for its dedication and patriotism in fighting illegal mining and reaffirmed his commitment to lawful mining, environmental protection, and youth empowerment.

omoro Chief refutes illegal mining allegations, insists on lawful operations

“I am also committed to lawful mining, environmental conservation, and youth empowerment, and I will not support any activity that harms our natural resources,” he added.

MRA/AE

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