NAIMOS Taskforce Rejects GHC119k Bribe, Arrests Galamsey Operators in Bekwai
NAIMOS foils GHC119k bribe attempt and arrests three suspected galamsey operators in Bekwai.
- Taskforce seized excavator, monitors, and other illegal mining equipment.
- Suspects Emmanuel Koblah, Samuel Addai, and Kofi Frimpong arrested after failed bribery.
- NAIMOS urges vigilance to prevent resumption of illegal mining activities.
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has foiled a bribery attempt and arrested three suspected galamsey operators following the seizure of illegal mining equipment in Bekwai Municipality.
On Wednesday, 18 February 2026, the task force resumed anti-galamsey operations at Edwinase and Kokotro, areas previously cleared of illegal miners. At Kokotro, officers discovered a hazardous mining site within the town, posing threats to lives, property, and the environment.
During the raid, NAIMOS dismantled makeshift structures, destroyed industrial pumping machines, and confiscated equipment, including a Liugong excavator, two Liugong monitors, and an unregistered motorcycle.
While returning to base, the team was approached by three men — Emmanuel Koblah, Samuel Addai, and Kofi Frimpong — in a black Tundra F150 (registration GR 4743–16), who claimed ownership of the Kokotro site and attempted to bribe officers with GHC 119,825 to reclaim the seized items. The bribe was rejected, and the trio was arrested and handed over to the Bekwai Police Station for investigation and prosecution.
The confiscated bribe, mining equipment, and vehicle are now secured at NAIMOS headquarters. The Secretariat warned that any attempts to bribe officers will result in immediate arrest and legal action, and urged local authorities and security agencies to maintain vigilance over previously raided sites to prevent the resumption of illegal mining.
