NAIMOS assures stakeholders of action on reported invasion of Atewa Forest by illegal miners

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAILOS) has taken swift action to tackle reports of illegal mining within the Atewa Range Forest Reserve, following recent public and media allegations. In a statement released on September 14, 2026, NAILOS pledged to intensify efforts to safeguard Ghana's forest reserves, water sources, and other ecologically sensitive areas from illegal mining activities.

The Secretariat acknowledged concerns expressed by A Rocha Ghana and other stakeholders at a joint press conference. NAILOS has already conducted reconnaissance operations within the Atewa enclave and is now working with security and state agencies to launch decisive actions. The organization emphasized that the next phase of operations will rely on verified intelligence and further assessments to maximize results.

NAILOS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Ghana's natural resources and preventing illegal mining from damaging critical forest reserves, water bodies, and the livelihoods of local communities. The Secretariat also thanked civil society organizations, traditional authorities, local communities, and the public for their vigilance and urged them to continue providing credible information to aid in the fight against illegal mining across the country.

The Atewa Range Forest Reserve is highly valued for its ecological importance, with concerns over potential threats to its forests, biodiversity, and water resources. NAILOS assured that it will continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to safeguard the reserve and other environmentally sensitive areas from illegal mining activities.