NAIMOS arrests two Chinese galamsey operators polluting River Subri in Bekwai

The National Anti‑Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) over the weekend made a significant arrest in the fight against illegal mining and environmental pollution. Authorities detained two Chinese nationals caught in the act of polluting the River Subri near Bekwai, in a coordinated operation aimed at curbing foreign-led “galamsey” activities.

The arrests were made on Monday, 8 December 2025, following surveillance and intelligence-led investigations into mining operations along the river. The suspects are accused of using toxic chemicals and unsafe mining practices that threatened not only the River Subri ecosystem but also the health and livelihoods of downstream communities relying on the waterway for domestic and farming purposes.

NAIMOS confirmed that the suspects will be prosecuted under Ghana’s mining and environmental laws. The operation is part of a broader crackdown on illegal mining operations involving foreign nationals, a crackdown which has, in recent weeks, seen several similar arrests and large-scale site destructions across multiple regions.

Environmental watchdogs and local community leaders welcomed the arrest, describing it as a demonstration of state resolve to protect Ghana’s natural resources. Many had raised alarm over increasing reports of water pollution, destruction of riverine ecosystems, and loss of aquatic life, symptoms of unchecked illicit mining operations. The Bekwai community in particular expressed relief, calling the action “long overdue.”

Still, activists warn that arresting a few operators is only a short-term fix. They are calling for sustained enforcement, restoration of degraded ecosystems, and long-term monitoring to deter further offences. They also urge government support for clean-up efforts and alternative livelihoods for affected residents, arguing that environmental protection and social welfare must go hand in hand.

For now, the Bekwai operation stands as a stark reminder: illegal mining remains a serious threat to Ghana’s environment, but with political will and concerted action, even foreign-run illegal operations can be disrupted. The coming months will show whether such interventions will be followed by meaningful environmental remediation and systemic reform.