The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested two Chinese nationals for engaging in illegal mining activities at Pankese in the Birim North District of the Eastern Region.
The suspects, identified as Li Yongjin and Nou Chin Haw, were apprehended on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at about 9:45 a.m. during an operation conducted by a NAIMOS taskforce deployed to the area.
According to NAIMOS, the activities of the two foreign illegal miners caused extensive destruction to forest reserves and cocoa farmlands, while also leading to severe pollution of nearby water bodies, including the Birim River.
During the operation, the taskforce immobilised two excavators being used for the illegal mining by removing their monitors and control boards, rendering the machines inoperative.
This action was taken due to the immediate unavailability of lowbed trucks to evacuate the equipment.
The team also destroyed several illegal mining implements and installations found at the site and burnt makeshift structures erected to support the galamsey operations.
In addition, a Toyota Tundra pickup truck with registration number AS 8120–20, which was found at the site and allegedly used by the suspects, was seized.
NAIMOS emphasized its commitment to intensifying operations against illegal mining nationwide to protect the environment, water bodies, and livelihoods dependent on natural resources.
