GAF, police launch raids to arrest attackers of anti-galamsey team

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and the Ghana Police Service have launched joint intelligence-led operations across Ashanti, Volta, and Ahafo Regions to track down individuals suspected of orchestrating recent attacks on officials of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and other state agencies.

The coordinated dawn raids, which began on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, are underway at Dadwene and Anwona in the Ashanti Region; Ehi in the Volta Region; and Hwediem, Kenyase, Guaso, and Marhani in the Ahafo Region.

In a joint statement signed by Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director-General of Public Relations for the GAF, the security agencies said the operation specifically targets those behind violent assaults on NAIMOS operatives, police officers, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials, and journalists involved in anti-galamsey enforcement.

The statement emphasised that the mission is “targeted and intelligence-driven”, adding that any attempt to obstruct law enforcement duties will be met with the full force of the law.

Authorities have assured residents of affected communities that adequate security measures are in place to ensure public safety.

The agencies also thanked civil society groups, the media, and concerned citizens who have condemned the attacks, noting that such support strengthens the country’s collective resolve to end illegal mining.

Illegal mining—commonly known as galamsey—remains one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental and security threats.
Recent months have seen heightened clashes between security personnel and illegal miners, prompting calls for stronger protection for state officials enforcing mining regulations.

The current raids form part of the government’s renewed crackdown on galamsey and its financiers, aimed at protecting Ghana’s natural resources and maintaining rule of law in mining zones.