The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has said it is collaborating with relevant security and state agencies to take decisive action over reported illegal mining and encroachment activities within the Atewa Range Forest Reserve.
The Secretariat said it had taken note of recent media and public reports concerning illegal mining activities in the reserve, as well as concerns raised by A Rocha Ghana and other stakeholders at a joint press conference on Monday, September 14, 2026.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 15 and signed by its Spokesperson, Paa Kwesi Shandorf, NAIMOS said the reports were receiving “necessary and urgent attention” because of the importance of protecting Ghana’s forest reserves, water sources and other ecologically sensitive areas.
NAIMOS disclosed that it had already conducted reconnaissance operations within the Atewa Range Forest Reserve and was working with relevant state and security agencies to determine the next course of action.
“Having already conducted reconnaissance operations within the enclave, NAIMOS is currently collaborating with relevant security and state agencies, to take decisive action within the reserve.
“This next line of intervention will be guided by verified intelligence and further operational assessment to achieve maximum results,” the Secretariat said.
NAIMOS assured the public that concerns over the reported activities in the Atewa forest reserve would not be ignored, stressing its commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources.
The Secretariat said it will ensure that illegal mining activities will not undermine critical forest reserves, water bodies or the livelihoods of communities that depend on them.
It also commended civil society organisations, traditional authorities, local communities and members of the public for remaining vigilant and encouraged them to continue providing credible information to support the national fight against illegal mining.
The Atewa Range Forest Reserve has been the subject of growing public concern over reported increasing encroachment and illegal mining activities, prompting calls from environmental groups and other stakeholders for stronger protection of the forest.
