NAIMOS arrests 18 illegal miners in Cape Three Points Forest reserve operation

About 18 suspected illegal miners have been arrested in a major anti-galamsey operation carried out within the Cape Three Points Forest Reserve in the Agona Ahanta District of the Western Region.

The operation, led by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat, took place on Monday, April 27, 2026, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m., following intelligence reports on illegal mining activities in the protected forest enclave.

According to NAIMOS, the suspects were caught actively engaged in illegal gold extraction, with their activities causing significant environmental damage, including the destruction of portions of palm plantations to create mining pits and install equipment.

At the site, the taskforce discovered eight Changfan machines in operation, along with 12 water pumping machines, gold washing platforms, and several hoses used for alluvial mining.

All eight Changfan machines were destroyed on the spot, while seven water pumping machines were seized. The remaining equipment was also disabled to prevent further illegal activity in the area.

The arrested individuals have been handed over to the Agona District Police Command to assist with investigations. They include David Kombat, Moses Kombat, Daniel Cobbinah, Sibi Nabi, Godfred Kojoe, Enoch Danquah, Eric Cobbinah, Henry Kwabena, Sumadu Patrick, David Ginib, Dorbaa Daniel, Simone Benibe, Abraham Waditey, Stephen Kojoe, Kwesi Donste, Bavari Naah, Abdul Rauf, and Paul Ganiue.

NAIMOS says the Cape Three Points Forest Reserve, one of Ghana’s key ecological zones, continues to face pressure from illegal mining activities, warning that such incursions pose a serious threat to the country’s natural heritage.

The Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to protecting forest reserves and other natural resources, stressing that illegal mining in protected areas will be met with firm enforcement

Source: adomonline.com