NAIMOS Arrests 10 Heavily Armed Chinese Galamseyers in Ashanti Region

In a major blow to the scourge of illegal mining, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested 10 heavily armed Chinese nationals suspected of engaging in galamsey activities at Abusa in the Ashanti Region.

The arrests were made during a joint intelligence-led operation conducted by NAIMOS and the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) on October 23, 2025. The suspects were apprehended in khaki uniforms and claimed to be acting under the command of a person identified as "Major Jabari".

A search of the suspects uncovered a pistol with three rounds of ammunition, a toy pistol, a pump-action shotgun, cartridges, and handcuffs, all of which were seized as exhibits. The operation also led to the interception of individuals who attempted to bribe officers with GH₵120,000 for the release of arrested miners.

The suspects were immediately detained for attempting to bribe law enforcement officers. The task force later discovered that illegal miners had established a settlement deep within the forest, with wooden structures and tents serving as operational bases.

The structures and equipment were destroyed to prevent reoccupation. Other seized items included vehicles, refrigerators, and rounds of ammunition. This development is the latest in a series of efforts by NAIMOS to dismantle illegal mining networks operating within the Oda River Forest Reserve in the Ashanti Region.

The intelligence-led operation led to the arrest of several illegal miners and nine armed imposters posing as National Security operatives.

Source – Lead News Online/Leticia Okpoti