Chiefs Endorse Anti-Galamsey Raids in Prestea Huni Valley

Security forces from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operational Support (NAIMOS) have conducted raids on unauthorized mining (galamsey) operations in Abosso and Abompieso, located in the Western Region's Prestea Huni Valley Municipality. The initiative has been widely praised by local traditional leaders.

For some time, illegal miners have encroached on farmlands, forests, and water sources in the Prestea Huni Valley area, disrupting agriculture and hindering development.

Led by NAIMOS commander Col. Dominic Buah and acting on orders from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the operation resulted in the destruction and confiscation of mining equipment at the two sites.

The crackdown came after traditional leaders formally requested NAIMOS to step in and curb illegal mining activities in the region. The chiefs have since released a statement applauding the raids and expressing gratitude to NAIMOS and the National Security Secretariat for their swift response.

In a statement signed by Abosso Chief Nana Kwesi Appiah, the traditional authorities cautioned politicians suspected of supporting illegal miners to stay away from their lands.

“We urge all politicians, both within and outside Prestea Huni Valley, who are enabling individuals or groups to engage in illegal mining, to immediately cease such actions,” the statement read.

They further emphasized: “Nananom will oppose such activities through all legal means available.”

The chiefs reaffirmed their support for the ongoing operation, stating: “We stand united in backing these raids against illegal mining as a collective effort.”