The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat has arrested two alleged galamsey “kingpins” during a raid on the banks of the Offin River in the Atwima Mponua District.
The operation, carried out on Saturday, April 25, 2026, between 1:00 p.m. and 9:50 p.m., followed what officials described as “hot intelligence” pointing to ongoing illegal mining activities at Akomfrem along the river.
When the taskforce arrived, several miners reportedly fled the scene, abandoning equipment and makeshift structures used for the illegal mining operations.
However, two suspects—a man and a woman—were apprehended at the scene. They reportedly claimed ownership of the mining site but failed to produce any legal documentation authorising mining activities.
The suspects were identified as 36-year-old Comfort Abayie and 28-year-old Ayenga Abraham.
In a statement, the taskforce explained that both were found in possession of mobile phones and other items suspected to be linked to illegal mining operations.
From the site, officers seized a wine-coloured Honda CRV with registration number DV 9678Y-2025, allegedly belonging to Abayie, as well as a wine-coloured JMC pickup with registration number DV 4168-2026, driven by Abraham.
Several high-end mobile phones, including iPhone models, were also retrieved, along with two sachets of suspected unrefined gold dust found on Abraham.
In a further sweep of the area, the taskforce dismantled and destroyed several pieces of equipment believed to be used for illegal extraction. These included six Changfan machines positioned directly on the Offin River, a KOOP diesel welding machine, as well as pipelines, water hoses, and temporary structures supporting the operation.
Following the raid, the suspects and seized exhibits were handed over to the Nyinahini District Police Command for further investigation and processing. NAIMOS has since confirmed that the items remain under secure custody for onward transfer to its headquarters.
Officials say the exercise forms part of intensified surveillance operations aimed at protecting Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves from illegal mining degradation. The Secretariat also reiterated its warning to illegal miners to desist from activities along river bodies, stressing that enforcement actions will be swift and sustained.
NAIMOS further expressed gratitude to members of the public for what it describes as “critical intelligence support” that continues to aid field operations.
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