The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested a suspected foreman of an illegal mining site at Akyem Morso, near Juaso in the Asante Akim South District of the Ashanti Region, following a targeted operation along the Kume River.
The suspect, identified as Elder David Bobie Peter, who claims to be an elder of The Church of Pentecost in Konongo, was apprehended after intelligence linked him to the illicit activities. He reportedly confessed to overseeing operations at a galamsey site in Morso and admitted he had been sent by his employer to monitor the presence of the task force.
During the raid, several illegal miners fled into nearby bushes, evading arrest. However, the task force dismantled eight Chanfang machines and four wooden gold-washing platforms, set multiple pipe hoses ablaze, and seized 12 water pumping machines. Two excavators found at separate sites were also rendered inoperable.
Authorities say the operation exposed extensive environmental damage, including pollution and diversion of the Kume River. The suspect has been handed over to the Konongo District Police for further investigation, as NAIMOS reiterates its commitment to cracking down on illegal mining activities across the country.