The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested three Chinese nationals for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities on the Tano River in the Western Region.
The arrest was made during a joint riverine operation by NAIMOS and the Blue Water Guards in Amenfi West District.
The suspects, identified as Deng Jun (37 years), Deng Bi Hua (50 years), and Deng Bi Qiang (32 years), were overseeing mining activities on the river using Changfen machines on floating platforms.
The operation led to the seizure of a pump action gun, 12 cartridges, and a Toyota Hilux Pickup (GS-5288-22).
Over 20 Changfen machines, pipelines, and makeshift structures were destroyed at the site.
NAIMOS stated that the illegal mining activities had polluted the Tano River and devastated farmlands in the area, reducing the river’s depth.
The Secretariat warned illegal miners to opt for responsible cooperative mining programs or risk losing their equipment.
The suspects have been handed over to the Ghana Immigration Service Enforcement Unit in Accra.
NAIMOS reaffirmed its commitment to removing illegal mining activities from waterways.
