The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested 18 suspected illegal miners in a major operation within the Cape Three Points Forest Reserve in the Western Region.
The intelligence-led raid targeted illegal mining activities deep within the forest enclave in the Agona Ahanta District, an area considered environmentally sensitive and critical to Ghana’s ecosystem.
According to reports, the suspects were apprehended while actively engaging in illegal gold extraction during the operation.
The exercise forms part of ongoing nationwide efforts by NAIMOS to clamp down on galamsey activities, particularly in forest reserves and protected areas.
The operation also uncovered extensive environmental destruction within the reserve, with large pits, makeshift mining sites, and degraded vegetation observed across sections of the forest.
Authorities say the Cape Three Points Forest Reserve, known for its ecological importance, has increasingly come under threat from illegal mining, prompting intensified surveillance and enforcement.
NAIMOS, a specialised unit under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, has been leading coordinated operations to tackle illegal mining and restore degraded lands across the country.
The arrested individuals are expected to be processed and handed over for further investigations and possible prosecution.
