The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has carried out a major intelligence-led operation to dismantle illegal mining activities polluting the River Bisi in the Tano North Municipality of the Ahafo Region.

The operation, conducted on Monday, January 19, 2026, between the early morning hours and midday, targeted mining sites linked to severe environmental degradation along the River Bisi, a key tributary of the Tano River.

The pollution has reportedly disrupted farming and other livelihoods in nearby communities, including Egya Wuradu Kuro, Egya Antwi and Nana Etufuwaa Kuro.

During the exercise, the task force overran the illegal mining enclave, destroying makeshift shelters and logistical bases used by the operators.

Several items believed to have been used in the illicit activities were dismantled and destroyed, including heavy-duty water pumping machines, gold-washing platforms, generators and other mining accessories.

Additional equipment and materials were also destroyed at the site, among them welding and pumping machines, fuel-powered engines, radios, water hoses, diesel fuel drums and excavator batteries, as part of efforts to completely disable the operation and prevent a return.

After closing down the sites, NAIMOS officers engaged residents of the affected communities, most of whom are farmers, to gather intelligence and reassure them of continued state intervention.

The discussions also focused on rebuilding trust and underscoring the government’s commitment to protecting farmlands, water bodies and public infrastructure.

The Director of Operations at NAIMOS said similar enforcement actions would be sustained across the Ahafo and Bono regions, stressing that restoring the Tano River and its tributaries is critical to safeguarding agriculture, livelihoods and environmental sustainability.