NAIMOS Destroys 92 Illegal Mining Machines on Ghana’s Tano River in Two-Day Sweep
NAIMOS destroyed 92 chanfang machines between 15 and 18 October 2026 along the Tano River at Asemkrom.
In Brief
- •NAIMOS destroyed 92 chanfang machines between 15 and 18 October 2026 along the Tano River at Asemkrom.
- •61 machines were destroyed on 15 October, with 31 more taken out on 18 October; six water pumps, a generator, and two outboard motors were seized.
- •The operations are part of Operation WATER SHIELD, a campaign to protect Ghana’s water bodies from illegal in‑stream mining.
- •Illegal mining continues to degrade river turbidity and threaten the adjacent forest reserve and local communities.
- •NAIMOS plans sustained patrols and community engagement to prevent reoccupation of cleared sites.
Why It Matters
Illegal in‑stream mining has long threatened Ghana’s river ecosystems, causing turbidity, habitat loss, and risks to downstream communities that rely on clean water for drinking, fishing and agriculture. By dismantling 92 mining machines in a short period, NAIMOS not only disrupts current illicit activity but also signals a stronger enforcement posture that could deter future violations. The operation underscores the importance of protecting water resources for both environmental sustainability and the livelihoods of rural populations.
Key Details
- 15 Oct 2026 operation
- 61 chanfang machines destroyed, 6 water pumps & 1 generator recovered, 3 operators arrested
- 18 Oct 2026 operation
- 31 chanfang machines destroyed, 2 outboard motors seized
- Total machines destroyed
- 92 chanfang machines
- Recovered equipment
- 6 water pumps, 1 generator, 2 outboard motors
- Arrested operators
- 3
Context & Background
Illegal in‑stream mining has been a persistent issue in Ghana’s rivers, causing environmental damage and threatening local communities. NAIMOS was established to combat such activities.
Original Reporting & Sources
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