The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested four armed men for engaging in illegal mining activities along the Ankobra River at Dominase in the Nzema East Municipality of the Western Region.
According to an operational update, the arrests were made on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at about 3:25 p.m. during routine patrols by the task force, which uncovered an active illegal mining site along the river.
The suspects were identified as Alpha Musa, 28, Rahaman Rojer, 29, Laji Bengali, 25, and Mohammed Agana, 25.
NAIMOS said the men, who were armed with machetes and pump-action guns, also acted as security personnel at the illegal mining site. They reportedly resisted arrest and attempted to obstruct the operation but were eventually subdued and apprehended.
During interrogation, the suspects allegedly claimed they were operating under the authority of individuals identified as “Ras,” “Mambo,” and “Nana Teku,” believed to be linked to National Security personnel in Prestea. These claims have been forwarded to the police for further investigation.
The task force retrieved two pump-action guns, 82 cartridges, three machetes, a water pumping machine, and two SDLG control boards during the operation. Two excavators found at the site were also immobilised after their control boards were removed due to the absence of low-bed transport.
NAIMOS said the illegal mining activities had caused extensive environmental destruction, including pollution of the Ankobra River and damage to surrounding lands and forests.
The suspects, together with their mobile phones and other items, have been handed over to the Esiama District Police for further investigation and prosecution.
NAIMOS says it will continue its nationwide operations against illegal mining despite resistance from armed groups, urging the public to support efforts by providing credible intelligence.
