A joint security operation has led to the arrest of 15 suspected illegal miners operating close to the Sanso Methodist Primary and Junior High School in the Obuasi municipality of the Ashanti region.
The Saturday, August 1, 2026 arrests follow a whistleblower report that alerted authorities on the illegal mining activities.
The operation, which underscores the government’s renewed commitment to combating illegal mining, was carried out by a multi-agency team comprising the National Intelligence and Operations Management Secretariat (NIAMOS), National Security, the 4 Battalion (4 BN) of the Ghana Armed Forces, and the Obuasi Divisional Police Command.
The swoop targeted an illegal mining site situated close to the educational institution, where mining activities poses significant environmental, safety, and health risks to pupils, teachers and the surrounding community.
During the operation, the security team arrested 15 individuals suspected to be engaged in illegal mining.
Three excavators allegedly being used for the unlawful operation were confiscated, while other mining equipment found at the site was destroyed to prevent its further use.
Officials say the operation was prompted by credible intelligence received through a whistleblower, highlighting the growing role of community participation in the fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
The security agencies reiterated their determination to clamp down on illegal mining activities, particularly those taking place near schools, water bodies, residential communities, and other sensitive public facilities.
The suspects are expected to assist with ongoing investigations and will be processed in accordance with the law.
The latest operation forms part of sustained efforts by security agencies to protect lives, preserve the environment, and safeguard educational infrastructure from the devastating effects of illegal mining.
Authorities have also appealed to the public to continue providing timely information to support the nationwide campaign against galamsey.
NAIMOS arrests 19 ‘galamseyers’ for illegal mining near police station at Mpohor Fiase
By Benjamin Aidoo
