A government delegation led by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, visited the family of the late Private Agyapong Collins, a soldier who tragically lost his life in a recent operation against illegal mining (galamsey).

He was accompanied by officers of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

Private Collins, a personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), died while defending Ghana’s natural resources, underscoring the lethal risks faced by frontline security personnel.

The minister, whose visit on Friday was part of the government’s broader effort to honour all personnel protecting national assets, conveyed the heartfelt sympathies of President John Mahama to the bereaved family and the entire NAIMOS fraternity.

During the emotional visit to the deceased soldier’s family home, the minister paid tribute to Private Collins’ service and character, promising robust state assistance during their period of mourning.

The minister described the late soldier as “a true patriot who served his country with honour, courage and unwavering dedication.”

The commitment from the government includes:

• Full support to the bereaved relatives during this difficult period.
• Continuous assistance for the four other NAIMOS officers who sustained injuries in the same incident and are currently receiving medical treatment.

The minister later led a delegation from the ministry to the headquarters of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) to sign the Book of Condolence in honour of the fallen officer.

The tragic loss was described by the ministry as a “painful blow” to Ghana’s ongoing fight against illegal mining, serving as a stark reminder of the sacrifices required to protect the environment.

The ministry emphasised that Private Agyapong Collins’ sacrifice underscores the risks and challenges faced by frontline officers involved in anti-galamsey operations across the country.

Officials noted that the late officer “embodied the highest values of patriotism and professionalism,” and his loss “would be deeply felt within the security and natural resources sectors.”

Major General Lawrence Gbetanu, the Chief of the Army Staff, confirmed that the military establishment would honour the late Private Collins with the highest standards of service:

“Private Agyapong will be accorded a full military send-off as per the military standard.”

Private Sarfo Agyapong Collins will forever be remembered as a committed public servant whose dedication and sacrifice will remain a symbol of the nation’s collective struggle to safeguard its environment and resources.