The task force of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested four armed suspects for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities and unlawfully possessing firearms at Dominase in the Nzema East Municipality of the Western Region.

According to the Secretariat, the suspects were arrested on Wednesday, May 20, during a routine patrol operation along the Ankobra River, where an active illegal mining site was uncovered at about 3:25 p.m.

In a statement issued on Thursday, May 21, NAIMOS said the task force encountered four armed men at the site who were allegedly providing security for the illegal operation while also participating in the mining activities.

“Upon arriving at the site, the task force was confronted by four armed thugs wielding machetes and pump-action guns,” the statement said.

The Secretariat stated that the suspects initially resisted arrest and attempted to obstruct the operation.

“The armed thugs resisted arrest and refused to surrender to the task force. Instead, they violently attempted to obstruct the operation and prevent their arrest. However, the task force successfully subdued the suspects, leading to their apprehension,” it added.

The suspects were identified as Alpha Musa, 28; Rahaman Rojer, 29; Laji Bengali, 25; and Mohammed Agana, 25.

NAIMOS said preliminary interrogation of the suspects was conducted to assist ongoing investigations into illegal mining networks operating in the area.

According to the Secretariat, the suspects claimed they were acting under the instructions of individuals they identified only as Ras, Mambo and Nana Teku, whom they alleged were National Security operatives based in Prestea. The names have since been forwarded to the police for further investigation.

The Secretariat also indicated that the illegal mining activities had caused extensive environmental destruction, including severe pollution of the Ankobra River and damage to surrounding land and forest reserves.

Items retrieved from the site included two pump-action guns, 82 AA cartridges, three machetes, a water pumping machine and two SDLG excavator control boards.

NAIMOS further disclosed that two excavators were found at the scene. However, due to the absence of low-bed transport equipment, the machines were immobilised on site after their control boards were removed.

The suspects, together with retrieved items including mobile phones and a talisman, were handed over to the Esiama District Police for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Asiedu of the Esiama District Police received the suspects.

NAIMOS reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the fight against illegal mining despite increasing resistance from armed groups operating at some sites.

“The Secretariat wishes to caution all illegal miners and armed thugs against any form of resistance, as the task force will not be deterred by such reckless actions,” the statement stressed.

The Secretariat also commended members of the public for supporting its operations through intelligence sharing.