The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has confiscated 50 chanfang machines and other equipment used for illegal mining along the Ankobra River in the Western Region.

In a joint operation with the Nzema East Blue Water Guards on Friday, August 22, 2025, the team targeted illegal mining sites in the Abelebo and Akango communities within the Nzema East Municipality.

The raid followed reports of severe environmental destruction along the Ankobra River and its surrounding communities.

Acting on intelligence from local informants and surveillance provided by the Blue Water Guards, the task force stormed the sites. The illegal miners, who were captured on drone footage in significant numbers, fled upon the team’s arrival.

The operation led to the seizure and destruction of 50 chanfang machines, polytanks, generators, pipelines, and several makeshift structures erected as shelters for the miners.

Additional items, including refrigerators, a motorbike, PVC pipes, and excavator parts abandoned at the sites, were also confiscated.

The Administrator of NAIMOS, Joyce Asiedu, confirmed the operation and reaffirmed NAIMOS’ commitment to sustaining efforts to combat illegal mining in collaboration with the Blue Water Guards.