Armed mob attacks NAIMOS task force at Manso Keniago; two injured

Two personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) have sustained gunshot wounds following an altercation with an armed mob at Manso Keniago in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 11, during an anti-illegal mining operation by the NAIMOS Task Force.

The personnel were transporting excavators seized during the operation to a designated location for safekeeping when they encountered the armed group.

The mob allegedly attempted to obstruct the movement of the seized equipment.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, and signed by Paa Kwesi Schandorf, spokesperson for NAIMOS, the Secretariat said its personnel fired warning shots to deter the mob and prevent the confrontation from escalating.

“Faced with the hostile situation, the NAIMOS personnel fired warning shots in an attempt to deter the mob and prevent a further escalation of the confrontation. Unfortunately, two personnel sustained gunshot wounds in the incident,” the statement said in part.

The Secretariat condemned the attack and cautioned individuals and groups against obstructing its personnel while they carry out their duties.

“NAIMOS strongly condemns this act of aggression and cautions individuals and groups against obstructing its personnel in the lawful discharge of their duties,” the statement noted.

The Secretariat further cautioned that attacks, threats and other forms of violent resistance against its operations would not be tolerated.