The Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service have launched simultaneous joint operations across three regions, Ashanti, Volta, and Ahafo, targeting individuals believed to be behind recent attacks on members of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and other state officials.

The dawn swoops, which began on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, are taking place in the Ashanti Region at Dadwene and Anwona; in the Volta Region at Ehi; and in the Ahafo Region at Hwediem, Kenyase, Guaso, and Marhani.

According to a joint statement signed by Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director-General of Public Relations for the Ghana Armed Forces, the operation is “targeted and intelligence-led” to arrest persons linked to the violent attacks on NAIMOS officials, police officers, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) staff, and journalists.

The security agencies warned that any individual or group that attempts to obstruct their work in ongoing anti-galamsey operations or any other lawful duty would “face the full force of the law.”

“The Armed Forces and the Police Service wish to assure the general public that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure the safety and security of well-meaning inhabitants of these towns and communities,” the statement added, urging residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear.

The joint forces also commended civil society organisations, the media, and individuals who have publicly condemned the recent attacks, describing such support as critical to the success of the national campaign against illegal mining.

Illegal mining, or galamsey, continues to pose one of Ghana’s biggest environmental and security challenges, with government task forces frequently clashing with illegal miners and their financiers.

The latest swoops form part of intensified efforts to protect law enforcement personnel and sustain the anti-galamsey fight.