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NAIMOS Task Force Arrests Two Chinese Nationals for Illegal Mining in Tano Anwia Forest Reserve

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force has arrested two Chinese nationals for engaging in illegal mining activities within the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Jomoro area of the Western North Region.

The arrests were made during a high-risk intelligence-led operation on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, after Task Force members forced their way into the forest following an initial attempt by forest guards to delay access.

The Task Force discovered a Toyota Land Cruiser V8 (GR 442-14) with three occupants fleeing the scene. Two of the suspects, both Chinese nationals, were arrested on-site, while a third, believed to be a Black national, escaped.

Investigations revealed that the illegal mining operations were taking place along the Tano River, where river diversion had already begun, causing significant environmental damage.

The team found:

Items Seized

The arrested suspects have been transferred to NAIMOS Headquarters in Accra for further investigations and prosecution.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the Chinese nationals were operating under the guise of the Jomoro Community Mining Project. There are allegations that Chief Kwame Nana Nkansah of Jomoro issued the concession to them.

NAIMOS sources allege the two suspects are key financiers and logistical supporters of galamsey operations in the area, backing local illegal miners with funds and equipment.

The Task Force issued a stern warning to all foreign nationals and their local collaborators involved in illegal mining across Ghana’s forest reserves and water bodies.

“NAIMOS will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute anyone involved in illegal mining operations, including sponsors and facilitators. We urge Ghanaians to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities,” the statement said.

In a related operation at Essipong, Asankrangwua, in the Western Region, the Task Force visited Bugart Mining, which was operating along the Kwama stream, just metres from a major road.

Foreign nationals from Burkina Faso were found working at the site. The owner claimed to have obtained a licence in 2012—a statement that raised suspicions.

The Task Force immobilised a CAT excavator and instructed the owners to report to NAIMOS Headquarters with all Burkinabe workers on Thursday, October 9, 2025, for further questioning.

Illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, remains one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental and security challenges, threatening rivers, forests, and communities. The NAIMOS Task Force has intensified nationwide operations in recent months to dismantle illegal mining networks and prosecute offenders.

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