A swift operation by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Taskforce has dismantled an armed protection ring guarding an illicit mining site at Anbanzie in the Western Region.
The raid, carried out on February 9, 2026, met fierce resistance from about 15 heavily armed men who attempted to block the advance of security operatives. Wielding cutlasses and adorned with cowries, the assailants launched a confrontation aimed at protecting the illegal operation.
Despite the aggression, NAIMOS personnel held their ground and overpowered the group, arresting four suspects in the process. They have been identified as Massawudu Alhassan, 34; Zuberu Ahmidu, 32; William Boateng, 28; and Ernest Abeka, 22.
Preliminary investigations suggest the four were part of a 28-man team recruited by the site owner to provide security for the unauthorised mining activities.
Colonel Dominic Buah, Director of Operations at NAIMOS, reaffirmed the taskforce’s resolve, warning that personnel would not shy away from defending themselves when met with violence.
The suspects are currently in custody at the Salma Police Station, assisting with further inquiries as preparations for prosecution begin.
