One suspected illegal miner has been killed, another injured and four others arrested following an exchange of gunfire between security operatives and suspected illegal miners in the Atiwa Forest Reserve in the Eastern Region.
The incident occurred on Monday, November 2, 2026, during an enforcement operation under Operation GREEN SHIELD, involving personnel of the Army Special Operations Brigade (ASOB).
According to an operational account, the security team advanced approximately 10 kilometres into the forest to another suspected illegal mining site identified through drone surveillance.
The foot patrol, which lasted from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., led the operatives to a location where about 50 suspected illegal miners were reportedly working.
Upon spotting the security personnel, some of the miners allegedly attempted to flee, while others reportedly opened fire on the patrol team, prompting the operatives to return fire.
One suspected illegal miner died during the confrontation, while another sustained injuries.
The four people arrested comprise three Malian nationals and one Ghanaian.
Security operatives also seized two pump-action guns and six rounds of ammunition during the operation.
The injured suspect was given first aid at the scene before being evacuated to the Kyebi Government Hospital for further medical attention.
The four arrested suspects were subsequently handed over to the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) for further action.
No casualties were recorded among the security personnel involved in the operation.
