The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has taken into custody four soldiers accused of engaging in unauthorized raids at Simpa Junction in the Tarkwa Nsuaem District of the Western Region.
The arrests were made on Monday, August 18, 2025, during a targeted operation by the Secretariat’s taskforce. Officials confirmed that weapons and equipment belonging to the suspects were seized during the exercise.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the soldiers are linked to outlawed groups posing as National Security operatives, who often carry out illegal anti-mining operations in the area.
In a statement, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources said the four have since been transferred to the 2nd Infantry Battalion at Apremdo for further investigations and possible disciplinary action.
Authorities believe the arrests will come as a relief to licensed mining companies and individuals lawfully operating in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality, who have long raised concerns about harassment from unauthorized security activities.
NAIMOS has assured the public that it will continue working with other security agencies to intensify the fight against galamsey. The government has also reiterated its commitment to curbing illegal mining and addressing the environmental and economic challenges it poses.
