The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has said that it is treating with urgency, reports of illegal mining encroachment in the Atewa Range Forest Reserve.
This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, and signed by its Spokesperson, Paa Kwesi Schandorf,
NAIMOS said it has taken note of recent public and media reports about galamsey activities within the protected reserve.
The Secretariat also acknowledged concerns raised by A Rocha Ghana and other civil society groups during a joint press conference on Monday, September 14, on the current state of the forest.
According to the statement, NAIMOS considers the protection of Ghana’s forest reserves, water sources and ecologically sensitive areas as critical in the fight against illegal mining, and therefore all reports linked to Atewa are receiving “necessary and urgent attention.”
The Secretariat disclosed that it has already conducted reconnaissance operations within the Atewa enclave and is collaborating with relevant security and state agencies to take decisive action in the reserve.
“This next line of intervention will be guided by verified intelligence and further operational assessment to achieve maximum results,” the statement said.
NAIMOS assured the public that concerns regarding the Atewa Range Forest Reserve will not be ignored, reiterating its commitment to protecting natural resources and preventing illegal mining from undermining forest reserves, water bodies and dependent communities.
It also commended the vigilance of Civil Society Organisations, traditional authorities, communities and members of the public, and encouraged the continued provision of credible information to support the national fight against illegal mining.
The Atewa Range Forest Reserve, one of Ghana’s key biodiversity hotspots and an important water source for millions, has been at the centre of intense public debate in recent weeks over renewed illegal mining incursions.
