The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested some suspected illegal miners at Subin Akwaaboso in the Central Region following an enforcement operation on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with members of the Special Boat Squadron (SBS), reportedly encountered resistance from a group of individuals who allegedly wielded cutlasses, firearms and other offensive weapons.
In a statement, NAIMOS said its personnel faced considerable obstruction during the exercise, creating potential risks for officers and other people at the scene.
The Secretariat explained that the enforcement team operated under the direction of its Director of Operations, Colonel K. S. Appiah, and exercised restraint to prevent the situation from escalating.
“In the face of the obstruction, the enforcement team, under the direction of the NAIMOS Director of Operations, Colonel K. S. Appiah, exercised maximum restraint and took decisive measures to prevent further escalation,” the statement said.
NAIMOS did not disclose the number of suspects arrested or provide further details about their identities.
The Secretariat, however, warned that individuals suspected of attacking its personnel or obstructing lawful enforcement operations would be referred to the appropriate authorities for further action.
It stressed that its operations would continue to be conducted within the law, with officers expected to exercise restraint while taking necessary and proportionate measures to protect themselves and members of the public.
The statement also highlighted the need to safeguard journalists accompanying enforcement teams during such operations.
NAIMOS urged community leaders and residents to cooperate with its personnel and channel any concerns through the appropriate authorities.
The Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to working with security agencies, regulatory institutions and local communities, with support from the government and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, to combat illegal mining and protect the environment.
Read the statement below:
