In a targeted operation against illegal mining, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) conducted a series of raids on Monday, December 29.

The action, which began around 1:40 PM, focused on illicit mining sites in the Akyem Oda area within the Birim Central Municipality.

The operation resulted in the arrest of five Chinese nationals who were allegedly engaged in unauthorized mining and washing activities directly into the Birim River.

During the raids, the taskforce immobilized two excavators found operational at the site. Authorities also seized a Toyota Hilux pickup and a Toyota Land Cruiser believed to be used by the arrested individuals.

To dismantle the illegal mining infrastructure, the team destroyed several makeshift structures erected along the riverbank. This demolition included water pumping machines and other mining equipment found on-site.

This operation is part of NAIMOS's ongoing festive season crackdown, which aims to protect Ghana's major water bodies from further pollution and environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities.