The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has reported a shooting incident involving personnel from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) in the Bono Region.
According to an official statement, the incident occurred on Tuesday, 20th January 2026, along the Subinkurom–Kyeremasu stretch in Dormaa Central Municipality during a routine anti-galamsey operation. Armed assailants ambushed the NAIMOS task force from hiding in the bush, opening fire upon sighting the team.
An exchange of gunfire ensued, leaving one NAIMOS officer injured by a gunshot to the thigh. The officer was quickly transported to St. Matthew Catholic Hospital at Ampenkuro and is currently receiving treatment.
During the confrontation, one of the assailants, identified as Abuu Ibrahim, was fatally shot and later pronounced dead on arrival at the same hospital.
NAIMOS emphasised its ongoing commitment to combating illegal mining, despite the persistent threats and attacks faced by its personnel. The agency urged the public and all stakeholders to continue supporting its operations to curb the illegal mining activities that threaten both the environment and public safety.
The Ministry called on communities in affected areas to remain vigilant and collaborate with authorities to ensure the safety of NAIMOS teams and the success of anti-galamsey initiatives.
The statement was released by Paa Kwesi Schandorf, Media Relations Officer, Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources