9 Blue Water Guards arrested over alleged bribery, impersonation

Nine members of the Blue Water Guards (BWG) were arrested in Manso Adubia, Ashanti Region, on Friday, August 21, 2026, according to the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). The alleged offenses include bribery and impersonation, as the guards reportedly posed as NAIMOS officials while collecting money from individuals.

Following the arrests, BWG personnel have been warned against actions that could damage public trust in the ongoing battle against illegal mining. An internal notice highlighted that BWG members are not permitted to assume the identity or functions of NAIMOS officials, emphasizing that all guards must maintain professionalism and refrain from engaging in such behavior.

The arrests signal a continued partnership between NAIMOS and the BWG in combating illegal mining activities, particularly along water bodies and river corridors in the Ashanti Region. However, the alleged impersonation has raised concerns about maintaining clear distinctions between the roles of BWG and NAIMOS personnel during joint operations.