Accra, Nov. 12, GNA – Two personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) sustained gunshot wounds on Wednesday, November 11,2026, after an armed mob reportedly attacked a task force carrying out an anti-illegal mining operation at Manso Keniago in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region.
In a statement signed by Mr Paa Kwesi Schandorf, Spokesperson for NAIMOS, said the incident occurred while operatives were transporting excavators seized during the operation to a designated location for safekeeping.
He said the task force encountered an armed group that attempted to forcibly obstruct the lawful movement of the confiscated equipment.
“In the course of the exercise, the personnel encountered an armed mob that attempted to forcibly obstruct the lawful movement of the seized equipment,” Mr Schandorf stated.
The statement said NAIMOS personnel fired warning shots in an attempt to deter the mob and prevent further escalation of the confrontation.
However, two personnel of the Secretariat sustained gunshot wounds during the incident and are receiving treatment.
Meanwhile, Mr Schandorf confirmed in a media interview that three members of the Manso Keniago community had died from the confrontation that ensued.
Mr Schandorf strongly condemned the attack, describing it as an act of aggression against officers engaged in the lawful discharge of their duties.
He cautioned individuals and groups against obstructing NAIMOS operations, stressing that attacks, threats and other forms of violent resistance against its personnel were unacceptable and would not be tolerated.
The Spokesperson reiterated the Secretariat’s commitment to combating illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, across the country despite acts of intimidation and resistance.
He said NAIMOS would continue to undertake lawful enforcement operations aimed at protecting the country’s natural resources and addressing the menace of illegal mining.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Godwill Arthur-Mensah
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