NAIMOS vows decisive action against reported illegal mining in Atewa Forest

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has stated that it is preparing to take decisive action against illegal mining and encroachment activities reported within the Atewa Range Forest Reserve.

The Secretariat said it has taken note of reports from the media and civil society groups about the situation in the forest reserve.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 15, NAIMOS said it has already conducted reconnaissance operations in the area and is working with relevant security and state agencies to determine the next course of action.

“Given that the Secretariat considers the protection of Ghana's forest reserves, water sources and ecologically sensitive areas as critical in the fight against illegal mining, all reports in connection with the Atewa Range Forest Reserve are receiving necessary and urgent attention,” NAIMOS said.

The Secretariat said its next intervention would be guided by verified intelligence and further operational assessments to ensure that the exercise achieves maximum results.

NAIMOS said illegal mining will not be allowed to undermine critical forest reserves, water bodies and the communities that depend on them.

The Secretariat also commended the vigilance of civil society organisations, traditional authorities, communities and members of the public, and urged them to continue providing credible information to support efforts against illegal mining.

“NAIMOS remains committed to protecting Ghana's natural resources and ensuring that illegal mining activities do not undermine critical forest reserves, water bodies and the communities that depend on them,” the statement stressed.