Two personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) have sustained gunshot wounds following a confrontation with an armed mob during an anti-illegal mining operation at Manso Keniago in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, while the NAIMOS Task Force was transporting excavators seized during the operation to a designated location for safekeeping.
According to a statement signed by NAIMOS Spokesperson, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, the personnel encountered an armed mob that attempted to forcibly obstruct the lawful movement of the seized equipment.
Faced with the hostile situation, the NAIMOS personnel fired warning shots in an attempt to deter the mob and prevent further escalation of the confrontation. Unfortunately, two personnel sustained gunshot wounds in the incident.
NAIMOS strongly condemned the act of aggression and cautioned individuals and groups against obstructing its personnel in the lawful discharge of their duties.
“The Secretariat reiterates that attacks, threats, and other forms of violent resistance against its operations are unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” the statement said.
“NAIMOS remains resolute in its mandate to combat illegal mining and will continue to undertake lawful enforcement operations across the country, despite acts of intimidation and resistance.”
Meanwhile, separate reports reaching 3News in Kumasi indicate that three persons were allegedly killed and one other amputated in a violent clash involving NAIMOS personnel at Dome Keniago, also in the Amansie South District, on the same day.
According to the 3News report, the incident occurred when the NAIMOS team allegedly stormed Dome Keniago in an operation, leading to violence. The Chief of the town, Nana Obeng Mensah Ababio, is reported to have said the incident had thrown the entire community into a state of fear, panic and mourning, and alleged that NAIMOS personnel were after his life.
Mr Schandorf in a post on Facebook wrote, “Meanwhile, 3 persons have been confirmed dead, during the armed confrontation with NAIMOS at Manso Keniago today, while two NAIMOS personnel sustained injuries.” Thus, confirming the earlier report.
