New NAIMOS Operations Director pledges stronger fight against galamsey

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has undergone a leadership change as Colonel K. S. Appiah takes over from Colonel Dominic Buah, as its Director of Operations.

The handing-over ceremony took place on Thursday, June 11, as part of what officials described as a routine strategic rotation to improve operational efficiency.

Speaking at the event, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, said the transition represented more than a change in leadership.

In a news release shared on the same day, the minister noted that the responsibility being handed over was a national mission to protect Ghana's rivers, forests and mineral resources for future generations.

He stressed that illegal mining had become a highly organised and well-financed activity when the Mahama administration assumed office, placing severe pressure on water bodies and forest reserves.

Despite the challenges, he said progress had been made through the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama and the commitment of officers involved in anti-galamsey operations.

He further urged the incoming leadership to deepen intelligence gathering, embrace innovation and maintain integrity while building on the gains achieved.

On his part, the outgoing director advised his successor to remain firm, objective and disciplined, stressing that sustained operations and strict adherence to the law would be key to winning the fight against illegal mining.

Taking over the role, Colonel Appiah pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessor and intensify efforts to protect the country's natural resources.

He thanked the government for the confidence reposed in him and praised Colonel Buah for establishing a strong operational foundation for the secretariat.