NAIMOS launches major operation to clear illegal mining along Birim River

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has commenced a major operation in the Kyebi area of the Eastern Region to dismantle illegal mining activities along the Birim River and its surrounding area. The initiative, as part of NAIMOS's ongoing campaign against illegal mining, aims to safeguard the river, deter miners from operating within its corridor, and facilitate its gradual restoration.

A statement released on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, outlined that the operation also seeks to restore water production for the Ghana Water Company Limited, whose operations have been hampered by the river's severe pollution and degradation.

NAIMOS emphasized that a primary aim of the operation is to elevate the Birim River's condition, enabling the restoration of Ghana Water Company Limited's operations, which have been impeded by excessive pollution and river degradation. The Secretariat's taskforce has already entered illegal mining zones along sections of the Birim River and has begun clearing select sites. Disruption of mining activities at these locations has been reported as personnel continue to push into other identified areas.

The operation's focus is on removing illegal miners and dismantling mining activities situated within and adjacent to the river. Such activities have substantially contributed to the degradation and pollution of the Birim River and its adjacent environment. NAIMOS has also pledged to maintain surveillance at cleared sites to discourage illegal miners from returning.

In addition, surveillance will be continued to prevent the river's recovery and the resumption of reliable water supply for communities dependent on the affected waterworks from being undermined.

NAIMOS stressed that protecting Ghana's water bodies is a top priority in the fight against illegal mining. The organization reiterated that the Kyebi operation will be sustained as part of broader efforts to restore the Birim River, safeguard its catchment from further degradation, and facilitate the resumption of water treatment and supply operations.

The Secretariat appealed to the local communities along the Birim River to support the exercise and solicited the cessation of illegal mining activities by those involved. It reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with security agencies, regulatory bodies, the Ghana Water Company Limited, traditional authorities, and local communities in protecting the river and restoring it as a dependable source of water.