The NAIMOS Task Force, in collaboration with the Nzema East Blue Water Guards, has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities along the Ankobra River in the Western Region.

The operation, conducted on Tuesday, October 7, covered an estimated 9.8 kilometres from Gwira Eshiam to Anyinase in the Nzema East Municipality.

It forms part of efforts to safeguard the environment and protect vital water bodies from further destruction.

During the patrol, the Task Force encountered illegal miners at “Cocoa Ase,” a location in Gwira Banso, where mining was being carried out directly on the riverbed.

On sighting the patrol team, the miners fled, abandoning their equipment.

Authorities subsequently destroyed and seized several items, including seven Chanfang machines, 15 water pumping machines, gas cylinders, shovels, chairs, water hoses, and a generator set.

In addition, more than 100 makeshift structures were set ablaze to prevent further occupation.

The operation also uncovered severe environmental damage.

At one site, the team found the Kamei stream, which flows into the Ankobra, had been blocked by the miners.

The obstruction was cleared to restore the natural flow of water. A machine repair shop containing more than 50 pumping machines was also discovered.

These machines were rendered unserviceable, and two additional water pumps were confiscated.

Further action was taken at Abrodiem, where a Hyundai excavator was immobilised to prevent its future use in mining operations. Its pump and gear lever were removed by the Task Force.

In total, the operation resulted in the seizure of 23 water pumping machines, three gas cylinders, three shovels, four plastic chairs, two water hoses, a DSTV dish, a generator, a pickaxe, and parts from the immobilised excavator.

The NAIMOS Task Force has cautioned illegal miners operating in and around the Ankobra River to halt their activities immediately, stressing that regular operations will continue to disrupt galamsey and safeguard the environment.

The Task Force urged stakeholders and community members to support its work by reporting illegal mining activities to the appropriate authorities. It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting water bodies and ensuring sustainable environmental management in the region.