Eight people, including four Chinese nationals, have been arrested in a targeted operation against illegal mining along the Boin River, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has said.
The operation, carried out on April 11, 2026, by the NAIMOS Enchi Task Force between 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. at Boinso–Abrokyire, also led to the seizure of three pump-action guns, 37 cartridges, and two Zoomlion excavator control monitors.
Acting on intelligence, officers found active mining close to the river, including the pumping and washing of minerals directly in and along the water body, posing a serious environmental threat.
A wooden structure about 45 metres from the site was searched, revealing the weapons and ammunition. The task force later set the structure ablaze.
All eight suspects were arrested without resistance.
The four Chinese nationals were identified as Lu Weiykng (43), Zhou Xuanbai (39), Tan Zhongqiang (53), and Zhu Jiping (51).
Three Ghanaians were identified as David Done (32), from Bolgatanga; Santos Adaboo (26), from Zibilla; and Naya Sampana (44), from Bolgatanga. The fourth person, however, was not mentioned as reports touched on just three.
They have been handed over to the Boinso Police Station for further investigation. No casualties or injuries were recorded.
NAIMOS described the discovery of firearms as a serious development, highlighting the growing organisation and armament of illegal mining networks.
The Secretariat vowed sustained monitoring and follow-up operations to protect Ghana’s water bodies and natural resources.
