The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has apprehended three Chinese nationals and a Ghanaian during a swoop on an illegal mining site at Adum Banso K9 in the Mpohor District of the Western Region.

The operation, conducted on Monday, February 9, at about 11:20 a.m., was based on intelligence gathered on suspected illegal mining activities in the area.

NAIMOS said the raid formed part of its ongoing efforts to clamp down on galamsey operations across the region.

According to the Secretariat, upon the task force’s arrival at the site, the suspects allegedly attempted to flee in two separate vehicles but were swiftly intercepted and arrested.

They were travelling in a Mitsubishi pickup with registration number GT 3850-13 and a Toyota Highlander with registration number GS 572-25.

In a statement, NAIMOS disclosed that checks at the location revealed fresh tracks from two excavators, believed to have been hurriedly relocated and concealed in nearby bushes before the team arrived, suggesting an attempt to evade arrest and conceal evidence.

Both vehicles found at the scene were seized, while other tools and materials linked to the illegal mining activities were dismantled and disabled.

NAIMOS reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations against illegal mining and warned that individuals found engaging in such activities would face the full rigours of the law.