By: Akua Oteng Amponsah
The Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces have embarked on coordinated operations across three regions Ashanti, Volta, and Ahafo to apprehend individuals suspected of orchestrating recent assaults on members of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and other state officers.
The joint dawn raids began on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, focusing on specific communities: Dadwene and Anwona in the Ashanti Region; Ehi in the Volta Region; and Hwediem, Kenyase, Guaso, and Marhani in the Ahafo Region.
A statement jointly issued and signed by Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director-General of Public Relations for the Ghana Armed Forces, described the exercise as “targeted and intelligence-led,” emphasizing that its goal is to apprehend those involved in the violent attacks on NAIMOS staff, police officers, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials, and journalists.
The statement also cautioned that anyone who attempts to interfere with security personnel in the course of anti-galamsey operations or any other legitimate assignment will “face the full force of the law.”
“The Armed Forces and the Police Service wish to assure the general public that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure the safety and security of well-meaning inhabitants of these towns and communities,” the release noted, calling on residents to remain calm and go about their daily activities without fear.
The joint security forces further expressed appreciation to civil society groups, the media, and concerned citizens who have publicly condemned the recent wave of attacks, acknowledging that such solidarity is essential for sustaining the nationwide fight against illegal mining.
Illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, remains one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental and security issues, often leading to confrontations between task forces and illegal operators or their backers.
These latest operations form part of renewed efforts by the security agencies to safeguard law enforcement personnel and strengthen the ongoing campaign against galamsey.
