The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested three suspected illegal mining kingpins in the Bekwai Municipality of the Ashanti Region after they allegedly attempted to bribe a taskforce during ongoing anti-galamsey operations.
The arrests followed a series of raids on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Edwinase and Kokotro, where the taskforce dismantled illegal mining activities and destroyed makeshift structures set up by operators.
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At Kokotro, the team uncovered an illegal mining site located within the township, posing significant risk to residents and causing extensive environmental damage. The operation led to the seizure of a Liugong excavator, two excavator monitors, and an unregistered motorcycle, all of which have been secured at NAIMOS’ equipment holding facility in Kumasi.
While returning from the exercise, the taskforce intercepted three individuals—identified as Emmanuel Kobläh, Samuel Addai, and Kofi Frimpong—who reportedly approached officers in a black Tundra F150 vehicle claiming ownership of the site and offering GH¢119,825 in exchange for the release of the confiscated equipment.
The suspects were immediately arrested and handed over to the Bekwai Police for investigation and possible prosecution. The cash and vehicle have also been impounded as evidence.
NAIMOS has reiterated its warning to illegal miners and their financiers to desist from bribery and unlawful activities, stressing that offenders will be dealt with in accordance with the law. The Secretariat further called on local authorities and security agencies to strengthen surveillance to prevent a resurgence of illegal mining in cleared areas.
