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NAIMOS Advances Into Atiwa Forest as Day Two of Eastern Region Operation Uncovers Child Labour, River Diversion and Heavy Machinery 5 December 2025
The second day of NAIMOS’ Eastern Region operation began at first light on 05 December 2025, as the team pushed deeper into the Atiwa Forest in pursuit of persistent illegal mining networks. From 0700 hours until nightfall, the team moved between Pimpong and Fante Ebuorho, two enclaves where galamsey activities had been flourishing along the banks of the Ayensu River.
Upon entering the forest, the task force found unmistakable evidence of large-scale destruction. At Pimpong, deep pits stretched across several acres of land, gouged into the earth in a pattern that revealed months of continuous excavation.
The operators had cut channels to divert the Ayensu River directly onto the site, creating a flow of water that aided their illegal processing and sent polluted waste straight back into the natural river system.
What stood out most, however, was the sight of minors engaged in the operation. Several children between thirteen (13) and sixteen (16) years old were found working among the pits, handling tools and assisting adults who fled into the bush at the approach of the security team. Their presence added a disturbing dimension to the day’s findings and underscored the human cost of illegal mining.
The NAIMOS officers secured the children and removed them from the area before continuing their work.