Galamsey: See the current state of Ankobra River

An aerial view of the Ankobra River shows the severe impact of illegal mining activities otherwise known as galamsey on the water body.

A photo shared on social media by EDHUB on May 8, 2026, showed large sections of the river heavily polluted with muddy brown waters replacing what used to be a vital natural resource for surrounding communities.

Despite several attempts by successive government to combat the menace, galamsey continues to thrive, contributing to widespread pollution of water bodies.

The illegal mining ongoing in various parts of the country has wreaked havoc on the environment, undermining livelihoods and posing a threat to sustainable development.

In response, personnel from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), a specialized unit established to combat galamsey in collaboration with the Blue Water Guards, have intensified offensive patrols within the Nzema East District of the Western Region.

Galamsey’s Triple Threat: Destroying people, undermining equity, and devastating the environment

In a recent statement issued by NAIMOS, it said the operations, which covered a wide stretch of the river, extending from Gwira Banso to Tumentu, are aimed at identifying, disrupting, and deterring illegal mining activities in the area.

The Secretariat also reiterated its resolve to sustain pressure on illegal mining networks and calls on local communities to support efforts aimed at preserving the environment and upholding the law.

See the photo below:

An aerial view of the Ankobra River shows the severe impact of illegal gold mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, on the water body.

Large sections of the river appear heavily polluted and discoloured. pic.twitter.com/PDwBGGn74s

— EDHUB🌍ℹ (@eddie_wrt) May 8, 2026

JKB/VPO

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