Seven individuals, including four foreign nationals and three Ghanaians, have been apprehended by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) during an operation targeting illegal mining activities along the Boin River.
The exercise was carried out on April 11, 2026, by the NAIMOS Enchi Task Force within the Boinso–Abrokyire enclave in the Aowin District of the Western North Region.
The operation, which took place between 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., followed intelligence reports about ongoing illegal mining in the area.
Upon arrival, the team encountered active mining operations taking place dangerously close to the river, with miners reportedly washing minerals directly within the water body, an activity that poses significant environmental risks.
A nearby wooden structure, located roughly 45 metres from the site, was searched by the task force. During the search, officers retrieved three pump-action guns along with 37 rounds of ammunition. Additional items, including two excavator control monitors believed to be linked to mining operations, were also seized.
The task force proceeded to dismantle and burn down makeshift wooden structures suspected to have been used to support the illegal activities.
All seven suspects were arrested at the scene without any resistance. The foreign nationals were identified as Lu Weiykng, Zhou Xuanbai, Tan Zhongqiang, and Zhu Jiping.
The Ghanaian suspects David Done, Santos Adaboo, and Naya Sampana, have since been handed over to the police at Boinso for further investigation.
No injuries or casualties were recorded during the operation.
NAIMOS described the recovery of firearms at the site as a worrying development, noting that it reflects a growing level of coordination and sophistication among illegal mining groups. The Secretariat indicated that this discovery will shape future enforcement strategies.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to sustained operations in the area, aimed at safeguarding water bodies, forest reserves, and other natural resources from illegal mining activities.
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