By Felix Cofie
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, has issued a stern warning that the government will deploy the full force of the military and police against any community that attempts to attack or obstruct the operations of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Secretariat (NAIMOS).
His warning follows recent attacks on NAIMOS officers at Hwediem in the Ahafo Region. According to the Minister, the swift return of the Joint Military–Police Taskforce to Ahafo to arrest the perpetrators is proof of the government’s unwavering commitment to ending illegal mining.
Speaking at a ceremony where 230 pumping machines seized from illegal mining operators were handed over to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture for distribution to farmers, Mr. Kofi-Buah stressed that the government will not be intimidated in its fight against galamsey.
“The full force of the military and the police will be brought to bear on any community that attempts to attack or obstruct NAIMOS operations. No threats or intimidation will deter government from winning this fight,” he said.
The Minister further revealed that the government has committed GH₵150 million to support the operations of NAIMOS, describing it as a clear demonstration that the fight against illegal mining will be sustained and ultimately won.
Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, who received the seized pumping machines, praised the move as a step in the right direction. He said the redistribution of the equipment to farmers will support agricultural activities while reinforcing the state’s clampdown on illegal mining.
