NAIMOS arrests suspected key organiser of illegal miners during raid

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) taskforce has apprehended an individual alleged to be a key organiser of an illegal mining syndicate in Obuasi during major raids on several unauthorized mining sites in the area.

According to Elikem Kotoko, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Forestry Commission, on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, the arrested suspect is currently in police custody and is assisting with investigations.

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He noted that several other illegal miners fled upon spotting the NAIMOS taskforce.

“… Although the illegal miners took to their heels upon sighting the NAIMOS Taskforce, one person suspected to be a key organiser of the illegal miners at Obuasi was apprehended and he is currently in police custody for investigation and subsequently prosecution,” he posted.

Kotoko indicated that the raid was conducted at sites in Anyankyiremi, on November 17, 2025, which is believed to be a mining concession legally acquired by Ashanti Gold Corporation but has been illegally occupied by miners for their activities.

He added that NAIMOS based on its intelligence stormed the sites and has secured it.

“Acting on hot intelligence, the NAIMOS task forces raided and secured sites at Anyankyireml, believed to be a legally acquired mining concession belonging to Ashanti Gold Cooperation, which had been forcibly invaded and occupied by illegal mining thugs from Amansie, thereby denying the owners of the company rightful access to their lawful concession,” he shared.

Illegal makeshift structures used by the miners were burnt down, along with other mining equipment.

Additionally, items such as motorcycles, water pumps, and vehicles were also seized.

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“The Taskforce further raided and secured other strategic areas around the Obuasi Airport where illegal mining activities were ongoing as recently reported. Some mining equipment including motorbikes, vehicles and water pumps were seized. Several others including makeshift structures and mining equipment were destroyed,” he added.

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