The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested four military personnel for conducting unauthorised raids at Simpa Junction in the Tarkwa Nsuaem District of the Western Region.

In a tactical operation on Monday, August 18, the NAIMOS task force seized the weapons and equipment of the soldiers, who were reportedly carrying out illegal operations in the area.

The suspects are believed to be part of outlawed groups that stage unauthorised anti-illegal mining activities under the guise of National Security operations. Similar incidents of such illicit activities have been reported in other parts of the country.

The four military men have since been handed over to the 2nd Infantry Battalion of the Ghana Armed Forces at Apremdo in Takoradi for investigations and disciplinary action.

Authorities say the arrest is expected to bring relief to legitimate mining companies and individuals engaged in lawful businesses within the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality.

Meanwhile, NAIMOS is intensifying its joint operations with other state security agencies as part of the government’s renewed commitment to tackling the illegal mining menace and its destructive effects.