Sunyani: Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has launched the Bono Regional National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). He tasked the field taskforce of the secretariat to work tirelessly devoid of biases and favouritism to stem the growing illegal mining activities in the region.

According to Ghana News Agency, the taskforce comprises personnel from the Third Garrison Battalion (3BN), Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, National Security, and the National Investigations Bureau. Speaking at the closing session of a training for the NAIMOS field taskforce held at the Armour Training School of the 3BN at the Liberation Barracks in Sunyani, Mr Buah stated that the government was strongly behind them and ready to provide all the required logistical support to stem illegal mining and protect forest reserves.

Members of the taskforce underwent a one-week intensive training to fully prepare and equip them for their operations. Mr Buah emphasized the support of President John Mahama, stating that the President was ready to empower the taskforce to achieve their mandate. He reminded them that their work was a national duty and that the wellbeing of the region depended on their efforts to protect forests and water bodies.

Mr Buah warned illegal miners to cease their activities, stating that the law would not spare them if they were caught. He reiterated that the nationwide fight against galamsey would continue until success was achieved, and those who trespass must be prepared to face the full rigours of the law. The Minister affirmed the government’s strong opposition to illegal mining and its commitment to controlling the menace.