NAIMOS Rejects GH¢119k Bribe, Arrests Suspected Galamsey Operators in Bekwai

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has thwarted an attempted bribery scheme involving three suspected illegal miners after seizing equipment used for unlawful mining activities in the Bekwai Municipality of the Ashanti Region.

On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the task force continued its anti-galamsey operations, revisiting Edwinase and Kokotro communities where earlier raids had forced illegal miners to abandon their sites.

At Kokotro, officers uncovered a mining site operating within the township itself, posing serious risks to residents, property, and the environment.

During the exercise, the team dismantled temporary structures, destroyed industrial pumping machines, and confiscated various illegal mining tools. Items seized included a Liugong excavator, two Liugong monitors, and an unregistered motorcycle.

While returning from the operation, three men identified as Emmanuel Koblah, Samuel Addai, and Kofi Frimpong  intercepted the task force in a black Ford Tundra F150 (registration GR 4743–16). They allegedly claimed ownership of the Kokotro site and offered GH¢119,825 in cash in an attempt to recover the seized equipment.

The officers rejected the bribe and immediately arrested the suspects, who were later handed over to the Bekwai Police Station for further investigation and possible prosecution. The cash offer, the vehicle, and the excavator monitors have been secured at NAIMOS headquarters as evidence.

NAIMOS has cautioned illegal miners and their associates that any attempt to bribe enforcement officers will result in swift arrest and prosecution.

The Secretariat also called on local authorities and security agencies to strengthen surveillance of previously raided areas to prevent illegal miners from returning.