The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) has strongly condemned the recent mob attack on officers of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) at Bronikrom, near Hwidiem, in the Asutifi South Constituency of the Ahafo Region.
According to reports, the incident occurred on Saturday, November 1, 2025, when an angry mob allegedly mobilized, vandalized property, and physically assaulted military officers attached to NAIMOS who were carrying out their duties in the area.
In a statement released by the association, GNASSM described the incident as “unfortunate and unacceptable,” emphasizing that NAIMOS operates as a legitimate state institution mandated to regulate and combat illegal mining activities across the country.
“GNASSM strongly condemns this unfortunate incident and wishes to stress that NAIMOS operates as a legitimate state institution. Under no circumstances should its officers become targets of mob actions while discharging their lawful duties,” the statement said.
The association reminded mining communities of the tragic 2017 incident that led to the death of army officer Major Maxwell Mahama, urging residents to refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
“We wish to remind all mining communities to take heed from the tragic precedent in 2017, when the unlawful attack on army officer Major Mahama resulted in his untimely death. GNASSM therefore appeals to the youth in all mining areas to direct any grievances through appropriate and lawful channels for resolution,” it added.
GNASSM also called on government and security agencies to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation into the Hwidiem attack and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We call on government to launch a prompt and thorough investigation into this incident and to take decisive action against anyone found responsible or complicit in the attack. Such measures will serve as a deterrent to others who may consider taking similar lawless actions,” the statement concluded.
Source: KAB
