NAIMOS destroys illegal mining equipment on Butre River

Operatives of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) have dismantled and destroyed several illegal mining installations during a targeted anti-galamsey operation along the Butre River at Ewusiejo in the Ahanta West District of Ghana’s Western Region.

The operation, which took place on Thursday, May 14, 2026, forms part of intensified nationwide efforts by authorities to combat illegal mining activities that continue to pollute water bodies, destroy farmlands, and threaten Ghana’s environmental sustainability.

According to officials, the exercise was launched at approximately 09:15 GMT following intelligence reports identifying the area as an active illegal mining hotspot. Security operatives and members of the anti-illegal mining taskforce moved swiftly into the community to disrupt ongoing mining activities along the river.

Upon arriving at the site, the taskforce reportedly encountered about 30 suspected illegal miners operating near the riverbank. However, the suspects fled the scene immediately after noticing the approach of the security team, abandoning several mining tools, equipment, and temporary structures used for processing minerals.

Among the items discovered were wooden washing platforms constructed directly over sections of the river. Authorities say these makeshift structures were being used to wash mined materials into the water body, a practice that contributes heavily to river pollution and environmental degradation.

The taskforce also uncovered a changfan machine fitted with extended water-pumping hoses. Investigators believe the equipment was being used to draw large quantities of water from the Butre River for illegal mining operations before discharging contaminated wastewater back into the river system.

Officials noted that such activities pose a serious threat to aquatic life, nearby communities, and the long-term availability of clean water resources in the region.

As part of the operation, the changfan machine, pumping hoses, wooden structures, and other mining installations were dismantled and destroyed on-site to prevent the miners from returning to continue operations.

The operation is one of several recent enforcement exercises being conducted across Ghana as authorities intensify the national fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

Illegal mining has remained a major environmental and political issue in Ghana for years, with experts warning that continued pollution of rivers and forests could lead to severe ecological and economic consequences if not urgently addressed.

NAIMOS reiterated its commitment to sustained anti-galamsey enforcement operations across affected regions and warned that individuals engaged in illegal mining activities would continue to face strict action.

The Secretariat further emphasized that protecting Ghana’s rivers, forests, and natural resources remains a national priority, adding that ongoing operations will focus on preserving water bodies and restoring degraded environments for future generations.