NAIMOS Responds To Atewa Forest Invasion, Says Reports Receiving Urgent Attention
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) says all reports in connection with the Atewa Range Forest Reserve invasion by illegal miners are receiving necessary and urgent attention.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, 15th September 2026 and signed by its Spokesperson, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, NAIMOS said it has taken note of recent public and media reports regarding illegal mining and encroachment activities within the Atewa Range Forest Reserve.
The Secretariat also acknowledged concerns raised by A Rocha Ghana and other concerned groups during a joint press conference on Monday, 14th September 2026, on the current state of the forest reserve.
“Given that the Secretariat considers the protection of Ghana’s forest reserves, water sources and ecologically sensitive areas as critical in the fight against illegal mining, all reports in connection with the Atewa Range Forest Reserve are receiving necessary and urgent attention,” the statement said.
According to NAIMOS, it has already conducted reconnaissance operations within the enclave and is currently collaborating with relevant security and state agencies to take decisive action within the reserve.
“This next line of intervention will be guided by verified intelligence and further operational assessment to achieve maximum results,” it added.
NAIMOS assured the public that concerns regarding the Atewa Range Forest Reserve will not be ignored, reiterating its commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring that illegal mining activities do not undermine critical forest reserves, water bodies and communities that depend on them.
The Secretariat further appreciated the vigilance of Civil Society Organisations, traditional authorities, communities and members of the public, and encouraged the continued provision of credible information to support the national fight against illegal mining.
