The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has concluded a five-day intensive enforcement campaign across the Wassa Amenfi Central District in the Western Region, dismantling over ninety (90) illegal mining machines and exposing severe environmental destruction caused by galamsey activities.

The operation, carried out between Saturday, May 23 and Wednesday, May 27, 2026, targeted key illegal mining hotspots including Dominase, Jedua, Ankasie, Agona, and Kwaben.

According to NAiMOS, the exercise revealed large-scale, organised illegal mining operations that have devastated forests, polluted major rivers, and created dangerous open pits posing threats to residents.

The campaign began at Dominase, where over 100 illegal miners fled upon the arrival of the task force. Three excavators were immobilised, 25 changfan machines destroyed, and several supporting structures burnt. Additional items, including a motorbike, machine components, and fuel, were seized.

At Jedua, illegal miners were found operating within the concession of Minev Company under the alleged sponsorship of a known kingpin. Although operators fled, excavators were immobilised and equipment destroyed.

The situation at Ankasie was described as one of the most alarming, with vast forest destruction and deep water-filled pits. A search at the site led to the recovery of two pump-action firearms and fourteen rounds of ammunition, confirming the presence of armed elements.

Over 30 changfan machines and multiple engines were destroyed.

Operations at Agona uncovered extensive excavation, with over 20 changfan machines destroyed. At Kwaben, about 50 miners fled the scene as operatives arrived, leaving behind equipment that was subsequently destroyed.

NAiMOS also reported severe pollution of the River Samire and River Tano, where illegal miners had constructed wooden washing platforms and continuously discharged contaminated water back into the rivers, rendering them unsafe for human use and aquatic life.