Following the recent operation carried out by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force at the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, which resulted in the arrest of two Chinese nationals and the seizure of a Land Cruiser V8 vehicle, my attention has been drawn to certain comments earlier made by me, Nana Kwame Nkansah II, Divisional Chief of Jomoro in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region.
In a press release issued by my office, I sought to contradict and question NAIMOS’s decision to conduct the said operation and, in the process, cast doubt on the credibility of the Task Force.
After careful consultation with my elders and some opinion leaders, I have come to the conclusion that the action taken by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force was appropriate.
I therefore wish to retract and apologise to all relevant stakeholders who may have been offended by my earlier statement.
The operation was legitimate and consistent with the government’s policy to combat illegal mining activities, particularly those occurring near riverbanks and within forest reserve areas.
My previous comments were based on information provided by some of my staff; however, after further checks and briefings, I acknowledge that I erred in my assessment and subsequent remarks.
I would like to take this opportunity to commend the NAIMOS Task Force for its dedication and patriotism in the fight against irresponsible and unlawful mining practices that threaten to destroy and pollute our water bodies.
I remain firmly committed to lawful mining practices, environmental conservation, and youth empowerment, and I will not support any activity that endangers our natural resources.
SIGNED
Nana Kwame Nkansah II
Divisional Chief of Jomoro, Aowin Municipality
Western North Region
Source: myxyzonline.com/Kofi Abrantie
