Review Your Strategies to Tackle Galamsey Effectively – Security Analyst Richard Kumadoe Urges NAIMOS
Richard Kumadoe calls for operational overhaul after attack on anti-galamsey officers in Ahafo Region
- Richard Kumadoe has urged NAIMOS to review its operational strategies following an attack on its officers in the Ahafo Region
- He warned that illegal mining has evolved into a major national security threat, endangering frontline officers
- The Lands Minister and IGP have directed swift investigations into the assault
Security and fraud prevention expert, Richard Kumadoe, has urged the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) to review its operational strategy following a recent attack on its officers in the Ahafo Region.
Speaking in an interview on Monday, November 3, Mr. Kumadoe described the growing illegal mining menace, known locally as galamsey, as a major national security threat that requires a more strategic and adaptive response.
He explained that galamsey has evolved beyond an environmental issue into a serious security challenge that endangers officers working to curb the practice.
“It is clear that galamsey poses a major national security threat. Anyone involved in combating it faces direct danger. Operational challenges and entrapment are part of the risks they endure,” he noted.
Mr. Kumadoe emphasized the need for NAIMOS to reassess its operational methods, ensuring that frontline officers remain both effective and safe.
“It’s time for NAIMOS to review its operational methodology and re-evaluate its strategies in the communities they operate. They must determine whether their current approach is helping or hindering progress,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has ordered an immediate investigation into the November 1, 2025 attack on NAIMOS personnel at Bronikrom near Hwediem.
According to police reports, the incident occurred when the NAIMOS team, led by its Director, intercepted illegal miners operating in the area. Several suspects were arrested, and key exhibits — including a Smith & Wesson pistol, ammunition, two pistol magazines, an unregistered Range Rover, an unregistered Toyota RAV4, and multiple mobile phones — were seized.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has since directed the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to take over the case and conduct a comprehensive investigation into the assault.
