Jomoro Chief Apologizes Over Comments on NAIMOS Task Force Operation

The Divisional Chief of Jomoro, Nana Kwame Nkansah II, has issued a public apology for his initial reaction to the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force’s operation in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve. The operation, conducted on October 8, 2025, resulted in the arrest of two Chinese nationals and the seizure of a Land Cruiser V8 vehicle.

In a press release, Chief Nkansah II admitted that his initial comments questioning NAIMOS’s decision were unfounded. After consulting with elders and opinion leaders, he acknowledged the legitimacy of the operation, which aimed to combat illegal mining near riverbanks and forest reserves.

A Change of Heart

Chief Nkansah II explained that his initial reaction was based on incomplete information, which was later clarified after several checks and briefings. He commended the NAIMOS Task Force for their dedication to fighting irresponsible and unlawful mining activities that harm the environment.

Commitment to Lawful Mining and Environmental Conservation

The Jomoro Chief emphasized his commitment to lawful mining, environmental conservation, and youth empowerment. He assured stakeholders that he would not support any activity that harms the nation’s natural resources.

Full Apology Statement

The Chief’s apology statement is reproduced below:

RE: JOMORO CHIEF REFUTES ILLEGAL MINING ALLEGATION– MY COMMENTS AGAINST NAIMOS TASK FORCE UNFORTUNATE

Following the recent operation carried out by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force at the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, which resulted in the arrest of two Chinese nationals and the seizure of a Land Cruiser V8 vehicle, my attention has been drawn to some comments made by me, Nana Kwame Nkansah II, the Divisional Chief of Jomoro in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region.
In a press release published by my office, I sought to contradict and question NAIMOS’s decision to conduct the raid in my area and attacked the credibility of NAIMOS.
After consulting with my elders and some opinion leaders, I concluded that the action taken by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force was appropriate, and I would like to retract and apologise to the various key stakeholders who may have been offended by my statement in the aftermath.
The raid was legitimate because it supported the company’s operational policy of combating illegal mining near riverbanks and forest reserve areas.
This was due to the earlier information provided by my employees, but after several checks and briefings, I erred in my comments.
I would like to take this opportunity to commend the NAIMOS Task Force on its dedication and patriotism in the fight against irresponsible and unlawful mining activities that threaten to harm and pollute our water bodies.
I am also committed to lawful mining, environmental conservation, and youth empowerment, and I will not support any activity that harms our natural resources.

SIDNED

Nana kwame Nkansah II
Divisional Chief of Jomoro of Aowin Municipal
Western North Region