National Security sacks operative in Oda galamsey case

The National Security Coordinating Secretariat (NSCS) has dismissed one of its operatives and begun disciplinary action against two others after they were linked to illegal mining activities in the Oda River Forest Reserve in the Ashanti Region.

The action follows an intelligence-led operation on October 23, 2025, carried out by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) in partnership with the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC).

The mission dismantled a well-organised illegal mining network and led to the arrest of fifteen illegal miners and nine armed men posing as National Security officers.

The impostors were found with weapons, including a pistol, a pump-action shotgun, and handcuffs.

An internal personnel audit by the NSCS identified three operatives whose names matched those detained. One of them, Issah Yakubu, a temporary operative previously assigned to the Yapei Axle Weight Station, was confirmed by colleagues to have been arrested during the operation.

Following this confirmation, the National Security Coordinator ordered Yakubu’s immediate dismissal and directed that he be prosecuted if found guilty.

The two other officers are under investigation and may face termination and prosecution if their involvement is proven.

The operation also uncovered attempts to bribe taskforce members with GH₵120,000, an offer that was rejected. Many Ghanaians have praised the swift action, viewing it as a sign that the government is serious about tackling “galamsey,” even when state officials are involved.