The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested a foreman involved in illegal mining activities at Akyem Morso near Juaso in the Asante Akim South District of the Ashanti Region, following a targeted enforcement operation along the Kume River.
The suspect, identified as Elder David Bobie Peter, who also serves as an elder of The Church of Pentecost at Konongo, was apprehended during an operation that covered Morso, Kyekyebiase and Bimma.
The task force initially raided a large illegal mining site at Kyekyebiase, where several young miners were found actively working. On sighting the operation, the miners fled into nearby bushes, escaping arrest despite a pursuit by the enforcement team.
NAIMOS officers subsequently dismantled illegal mining equipment at the site, destroying eight Chanfang machines and four wooden gold washing platforms through controlled burning. Twelve water pumping machines were also seized, while several hoses used for mining operations were set ablaze.
A further sweep of the area led to the discovery of excavator tracks leading to a nearby cocoa farm, where a Sany excavator had been concealed. The machine was immobilized by removing key components.
During the operation, a man who initially claimed to be a farmer was identified through intelligence as a foreman of one of the illegal mining sites. He was later confirmed as David Bobie Peter, who admitted his role and stated he had been sent by his supervisor, identified as Mr Appiah, to monitor the presence of the task force.
Following his admission, the suspect led officers to another illegal mining site at Morso, where extensive environmental damage was observed, including heavy pollution and diversion of the Kume River. A second excavator at the site was also disabled by the task force.
Elder David Bobie Peter has since been handed over to the Konongo District Police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
NAIMOS has reiterated its warning that illegal mining will not be tolerated regardless of the social, religious or political status of those involved, urging intensified collaboration among security agencies, traditional authorities and local stakeholders to protect water bodies and forest reserves.
