The Secretary of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), Dominic Buah, has warned that illegal miners are increasingly armed with dangerous weapons, posing a significant threat to national security.

Speaking at the NAIMOS Editors’ Forum and Quarterly Press Briefing on Wednesday, March 25, Mr Buah revealed that authorities have already identified at least 59 weapons, with indications that more remain in circulation among illegal mining groups.

He noted that many of the weapons recovered include pump-action firearms, which he described as particularly concerning due to their lethality and ease of use.

“These are pump-action guns in the hands of these galamseyers, and that is a big threat—a national security threat,” he stated, warning that the presence of such weapons increases the likelihood of violent confrontations.

According to Mr Buah, the possession of firearms by illegal miners raises the risk of escalation during enforcement operations.

He cautioned that any provocation could result in the use of these weapons against security personnel or civilians.

He further disclosed that there have already been incidents of violence during operations, including one in which a soldier was shot in the thigh. The officer, he said, is currently recovering.

The NAIMOS Secretary emphasised that despite such risks, the Secretariat remains resolute in its operations and will not be intimidated by armed resistance from illegal miners.

“As I have reiterated, NAIMOS will not stand by and watch people use weapons against us,” he said, adding that personnel are well trained and prepared to handle such threats.

Mr Buah reaffirmed NAIMOS’s commitment to intensifying its fight against illegal mining while ensuring the safety of its officers and the general public.