Officers from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) alongside personnel from the Special Boat Squadron (SBS) faced violent resistance during a crackdown on illegal mining at Subin Akwaaboso in the Central Region on Sunday afternoon.
The enforcement taskforce was met by a group of individuals armed with cutlasses, firearms, and other offensive weapons in an attempt to block the operation. Despite the high-risk situation and immediate threat to their safety, the team managed to apprehend several suspected illegal miners.
Under the direction of NAIMOS Director of Operations, Colonel K. S. Appiah, the enforcement team exercised maximum restraint to prevent the confrontation from escalating into a fatal clash.
Reacting to the incident, NAIMOS Spokesperson Paa Kwesi Schandorf warned that violent attacks on state security personnel while carrying out their lawful duties will not be tolerated.
“Any obstruction of lawful enforcement is a serious concern, and individuals suspected of attacking personnel or obstructing operations will be referred to the relevant authorities for necessary action,” Schandorf stated.
He added that the Secretariat remains committed to operating strictly within the confines of the law while executing its mandate.
“NAIMOS will continue to act within the law, exercising restraint and taking necessary and proportionate measures to protect personnel, accompanying journalists, and members of the public during the discharge of its duties,” he stressed.
The Secretariat urged community leaders and local residents to cooperate with law enforcement teams and channel any grievances through appropriate legal avenues rather than taking the law into their own hands.
With continued backing from the Government and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, NAIMOS affirmed its resolve to collaborate with key security agencies, regulatory bodies, and local communities to safeguard the environment and consolidate recent operational gains against illegal mining.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
