Mpohor-Fiase District Taskforce arrests suspected illegal miners in intelligence-led operation

The Mpohor-Fiase District Assembly has intensified its efforts to combat illegal mining (galamsey) following the arrest of some suspected illegal miners during an intelligence-led security operation spearheaded by the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Sophia Aubyn.

The operation was carried out by a joint anti-illegal mining taskforce comprising personnel from the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana National Fire Service, the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), and River Guards.

Briefing the taskforce ahead of the operation, Hon. Sophia Aubyn explained that the District Security Committee (DISEC) had resolved to strengthen local enforcement by increasing the number of personnel assigned to the district taskforce. She noted that although the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) continues to undertake nationwide operations, its broad mandate makes it difficult to maintain a continuous presence in every district.

She stated that the district taskforce was established to complement the work of NAIMOS by ensuring sustained surveillance and enforcement across the Mpohor-Fiase District. According to the DCE, the taskforce will undertake intelligence-led, strategic, and well-coordinated operations aimed at curbing illegal mining and protecting the district's natural resources.

The District Coordinating Director, Mr. Alhassan Sullemana, assured members of the taskforce of the Assembly's commitment to providing the necessary logistical support to ensure the success of their operations.

During the operation, several suspected illegal miners fled upon seeing the security personnel. However, the taskforce successfully arrested some suspects at various illegal mining sites within the district. Several exhibits believed to have been used in the illegal mining activities were also retrieved.

The suspects have since been transferred to the Sekondi Central Police Station to assist with investigations and undergo the necessary legal processes.

The operation forms part of the Mpohor-Fiase District Assembly's renewed commitment to supporting the national fight against illegal mining, protecting the environment, and promoting sustainable development.