A suspected illegal mining kingpin has been arrested in the Western Region after allegedly attempting to bribe officers of the National Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (NAIMOS) during an enforcement operation.
Reports indicate that the suspect was apprehended in the Ahanta West Municipality after he allegedly offered GH¢20,000 to members of the taskforce in a bid to influence their activities and avoid action against illegal mining operations in the area.
According to officials, the incident occurred while NAIMOS officers were carrying out routine operations aimed at clamping down on illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey. The suspect reportedly approached the taskforce with the cash offer, hoping to halt or soften the enforcement exercise.
Taskforce members rejected the offer and immediately reported the matter to the appropriate authorities, leading to the suspect’s arrest. Law enforcement agencies confirmed that the individual is currently in custody and assisting with investigations.
Authorities say the arrest forms part of broader efforts to dismantle illegal mining networks and address corruption attempts that undermine the fight against environmental destruction. Illegal mining has had devastating effects on water bodies, forests, and farmlands, particularly in mining-affected regions such as the Western Region.
NAIMOS and security officials have reiterated their commitment to enforcing mining laws without compromise and warned that any attempt to bribe or obstruct officers will be dealt with decisively. They have also encouraged the public to support anti-galamsey operations by reporting suspicious activities in their communities.
Investigations are ongoing, and the suspect is expected to be processed for court as authorities work to uncover the full extent of his involvement in illegal mining activities.
Source: Thepressradio.com
