NAIMOS needs to be better equipped for galamsey fight – Awula Serwah

Awula Serwah, the Executive Director of EcoConscious Citizens, has raised concerns about the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) being inadequately equipped to combat illegal mining. In an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile, she stated that the resources given to NAIMOS do not align with the magnitude of the issue nationwide.

Ms Serwah questioned whether NAIMOS, along with the Forestry Commission and other ground personnel, possess basic protective gear such as bulletproof vests. She emphasized that some illegal miners are reportedly carrying arms and are similarly protected, making it difficult for the task force to carry out their duties effectively.

Ms Serwah highlighted that forestry guards have suffered gunshot wounds, with one reportedly losing their life. She questioned the lack of protective gear for forestry guards, noting that two have been shot, and one deceased. She also inquired about the resources available to NAIMOS for their operations, specifically whether they have speedboats to patrol water bodies.

Despite these concerns, Ms Serwah acknowledged NAIMOS’ commendable efforts in tackling the issue. However, she stressed the necessity of enhancing the task force’s capacity to effectively combat galamsey.