The Ghana Armed Forces and Police Service have launched a massive anti-galamsey operation across several regions to arrest suspects involved in recent violent attacks on security officers, government officials, and journalists.
The joint anti-galamsey operation began at dawn on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, targeting hotspots in the Ashanti, Volta, and Ahafo Regions. The raids took place in communities including Dadwene, Anwona, Ehi, Hwediem, Kenyase, Goaso, and Marhani.
According to a statement from the Department of Public Relations at the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the mission was intelligence-led and aimed at capturing individuals behind the attacks on members of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), police officers, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials, and journalists.
The crackdown followed a violent incident on November 1, 2025, where the NAIMOS Director and his team were attacked by illegal miners at Hwediem in the Ahafo Region. The assault occurred after the team intercepted illegal miners near Bronikrom. Weapons, ammunition, unregistered vehicles, and mobile phones were seized during that operation.
Another attack occurred on November 6, 2025, when an EPA delegation led by Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse and a group of journalists were ambushed by illegal miners at Dadwene near Obuasi. The attackers disguised themselves as police officers, forcing the team to retreat. While returning to Kumasi, their vehicle collided with a KIA truck at Afari, leaving several people injured.
Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations for the Ghana Navy, warned that anyone who interferes with the anti-galamsey operation or obstructs security services performing lawful duties will face the full force of the law.
Hundreds of suspects were arrested during the coordinated raids. The detainees, mostly men, were transported to Kumasi for screening and further investigation. Those found innocent will be released, while others will face prosecution.
Commissioner of Police Dr. Sayibu Pabi Gariba urged officers to remain professional during the anti-galamsey operation, emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and fairness. He added that the mission was not just about arrests but about restoring public trust and protecting the nation’s resources.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to end illegal mining and protect Ghana’s environment. Authorities encouraged residents in affected areas to stay calm, assuring them that adequate security measures are in place. Civil society groups, the media, and the public were also commended for supporting the national anti-galamsey operation and condemning violence against state officials.
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