The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has announced the tragic loss of one of frontline personnel of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) in the ongoing battle against illegal mining, “galamsey.”
The incident, which occurred near the Obuasi Airport area in the Ashanti Region, left the mining industry and entire nation in a state of sorrow and concern.
According to the ministry’s press statement, a team of five (5) members of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) was involved in a fatal motor accident while conducting a major anti-galamsey operation aimed at curbing the menace within the area.
Tragically, one member of the taskforce has been confirmed dead, while the remaining four sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical care.
“The Ministry extends its profound sympathies to the family of our fallen colleague and conveys its heartfelt wishes for a swift recovery to the injured team members.”
Lands Ministry
NAIMOS and the Ministry’s Initiatives
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has been at the forefront of the government’s efforts to combat the scourge of illegal mining in the country.
Formed as a specialized unit within the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, NAIMOS has been tasked with the crucial responsibility of disrupting and dismantling the intricate networks of illegal mining operations that have destroyed the country’s natural resources.
Over past the months, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources further launched a series of comprehensive initiatives to address this illegal mining challenge.
From streamlining the licensing and permitting regime for small-scale mining to strengthening district mining committees and associations, the ministry has demonstrated a multifaceted approach to promote responsible and sustainable mining practices.
All these measures are targeted at curbing this environmental terrorism i.e galamsey to protect lives and resources. Unfortunately, the ravages have thrived this length where frontline workers are now being exchange for the fight.
Challenges and Dedication in the Galamsey Fight
The tragic incident involving the NAIMOS team underscores the significant risks and challenges faced by the frontline personnel in the ongoing battle against illegal mining.
Operating in remote and often treacherous environments, these dedicated officers put their lives on the line to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources and the livelihoods of the communities they serve.
Despite the inherent dangers, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources remained unwavering in its commitment to this critical mission.
The deployment of 1,000 blue-water guards to monitor and curb illegal mining activities on river bodies, as well as the ongoing training and sensitization programs for miners, are a testament to the ministry’s determination to eradicate the galamsey menace.
The loss of a NAIMOS team member in the line of duty is a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have dedicated themselves to protecting the country’s natural resources.
While the ministry mourns the tragic passing of the fallen colleague, it must also find the strength to carry on the fight, recognizing that the battle against illegal mining is far from over and the best way to honour these gallant officer and the rest of the citizens who lost their invaluable lives in the fight against this national threat is to ruthlessly win the fight.
The mining industry and the entire nation stand in solidarity with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, acknowledging the immense challenges faced by the NAIMOS taskforce and the broader efforts to promote responsible and sustainable mining practices.
While the investigation into the accident continues, it is crucial that the ministry receives the unwavering support of all stakeholders in its quest to safeguard Ghana’s environmental heritage and the well-being of its citizens.
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