NAIMOS arrests five Chinese nationals for illegal mining along Birim River

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), working jointly with the Birim Central Municipal Security Council, arrested five Chinese nationals, including one woman, on Friday, January 16, for their alleged involvement in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey, along the Birim River.

According to reports, the suspects were engaged in mining operations that were polluting the river when they were intercepted by the security task force. NAIMOS officials indicated that the action forms part of sustained measures aimed at addressing environmental destruction resulting from unauthorized mining activities within the area.

As part of the operation, the security personnel dismantled and destroyed various mining tools, including a changfan machine allegedly used by the suspects to extract minerals. This move was intended to discourage similar illegal operations in the future.

The arrests, NAIMOS noted, underscore ongoing efforts to enforce mining laws, protect the environment, and secure the livelihoods of communities that depend on the Birim River.

Source: CNR