NAiMOS dismantles illegal mining setups along Butre river at Ewusiejo

Operatives of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) on Thursday, May 14, 2026, conducted a targeted riverine operation at Ewusiejo along the Butre River in the Ahanta West District of the Western Region, dismantling several illegal mining structures in the process.

The exercise, which began at about 0915 hours, forms part of ongoing nationwide efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities that continue to threaten Ghana’s water bodies and degrade the environment.

Acting on credible intelligence, the taskforce moved to the site where about 30 individuals were reportedly engaged in illegal mining operations. The suspects fled upon sighting the security team, abandoning their equipment and makeshift installations.

A sweep of the area revealed several wooden washing platforms constructed along the riverbanks and used to process mined materials directly into the water.

The team also discovered a changfan machine fitted with extended water pumping hoses linked directly to the river. Preliminary findings indicated that the equipment was being used to extract water for mining activities while discharging polluted wastewater back into the river, contributing to contamination of the water source.

To prevent further environmental damage, the taskforce dismantled and destroyed the changfan machine, the water hoses, and all wooden structures found at the site.

NAiMOS reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying enforcement operations against illegal mining, particularly in river bodies and other ecologically sensitive areas.

It also issued a strong warning to persons engaged in such activities to desist immediately, stressing that sustained operations will continue to protect the country’s natural resources and promote environmental sustainability.