News
NAIMOS Task Force storms Ankobra River, crushes illegal mining operations in bold riverine patrol
In a fierce show of resolve to save Ghana’s water bodies from destruction, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force, in collaboration with the Nzema East Blue Water Guards, has launched a sweeping riverine operation along the Ankobra River, dismantling illegal mining activities that have long plagued the area.
The operation, which spanned nearly 10 kilometres from Gwira Eshiam to Anyinase, uncovered massive illegal mining activities, particularly at “Cocoa Ase” in Gwira Banso where miners were dredging the riverbed.
The culprits, upon spotting the Task Force, fled the scene, abandoning equipment and makeshift structures used for their illicit operations.
In a decisive move, the Task Force set ablaze over 100 makeshift shelters, destroyed 7 Chanfang machines, and seized an assortment of mining tools including 23 water pumping machines, gas cylinders, shovels, and even a DSTV dish believed to have been used at the site.
A Hyundai excavator discovered at Abrodiem was also immobilised after its pump and gear lever were removed.
Further inspection revealed a blocked tributary, the Kamei Stream, which had been diverted by miners to aid their operations.
The Task Force successfully reopened the waterway and destroyed over 50 pumping machines found at a nearby repair shop, rendering them unserviceable.
Issuing a stern warning, NAIMOS cautioned all illegal miners to vacate the Ankobra River and its adjoining areas immediately.
“This operation is just the beginning,” an official stated, adding that “We will not relent in our mission to protect Ghana’s environment and water resources from further degradation.”
With the success of this operation, NAIMOS has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring the integrity of Ghana’s rivers and safeguarding livelihoods that depend on them.
Ghanaian soccer fans partied all-night again after the Black Stars held the Three Lions of England to a pulsating goalless draw in a Group L game on Tuesday.
Despite dropping points, the outcome sparked scenes similar to what was seen about a week ago when the Black Stars defeated Panama 1-0 in their opening game.
Ghana went into the game as massive underdogs considering England’s credentials. They were heavy favourites but both countries had their eyes on the same prize-qualification to the next stage of the competition.
With just a point separating the top three countries in the group, qualification would be settled on the final day of qualifiers, which is today when Ghana takes on Croatia and England faces Panama.
Moments after the whistle went for the end of proceedings, the fans hit the streets, jamming to the various Black Stars-themed songs, dancing late into the night.
Though they were working days, fans filled night clubs and pubs in the various vicinities chanting the Stars who became instant heroes.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
The impact of this year’s rains has been severe, with its intensity and volume surpassing those experienced in previous years.
The heavy rains have exposed significant weaknesses in the country’s drainage system, town planning, sanitation, and building construction systems, leading to loss of lives and property.
Additionally, several storey buildings have collapsed, leaving residents and families devastated by the loss of their loved ones.
In many areas, streets have been transformed into rivers as a result of clogged drainage systems.
Road traffic congestion has also become a daily challenge as a result, as vehicles struggle to navigate flooded roads.
Consequently, many commuters are forced to spend long hours in traffic and arrive home late from work.
With the Ghana Meteorological Agency announcing more rains in the coming weeks, it is important for the government to intensify efforts to address the persistent flooding problem.
Additionally, citizens must change their attitudes towards waste disposal to prevent drainage systems from becoming clogged and to help reduce the impact of flooding across the country.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
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