17 excavators seized in anti-galamsey operation along River Offin
A joint operation by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and the Ghana Armed Forces has resulted in the seizure of 17 excavators and the destruction of illegal mining equipment along sections of the River Offin in the Central Region.
The week-long exercise, conducted between September 7 and 13, targeted illegal mining sites at Subin-Akwaboso in the Upper Denkyira West Municipality and nearby communities following intelligence-led surveillance by security personnel.
According to NAIMOS Director of Operations, Lt. Col. K. S. Appiah, the operation uncovered active illegal mining activities within the township, along major access roads and around tributaries of the River Offin.
Fifteen excavators were seized at Subin-Akwaboso, while several chanfang machines and temporary structures used by illegal miners were destroyed. The task force later extended the operation to Dunkwa-On-Offin, where two more excavators were confiscated and additional mining equipment dismantled.
Lt. Col. Appiah said all seized excavators have been transported to a secure military facility in the Ashanti Region pending investigations and further administrative processes.
He noted that the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to protect the River Offin from the impact of illegal mining and curb environmental destruction in communities along the water body.
NAIMOS has also indicated that follow-up patrols will be carried out in the area to prevent a return of illegal miners, while persons linked to the affected sites are expected to be engaged on the reclamation and restoration of degraded lands.
Source: CNR
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