NAIMOS began a two‑day operation on Wednesday, 28 October, that culminated on Thursday, 29 October, with the arrest of more than 30 individuals suspected of operating illegal sand‑winning sites along the Volta Basin and in parts of the Ningo‑Prampram area. Among those detained was 64‑year‑old Chinese national Leo Si Mei.
The sweep covered a string of communities, including Battor, Aveyime, Dawa Industrial Enclave and other locations along the river. Suspects were charged with conducting sand‑winning activities without the required permits, a violation that threatens both the environment and public safety.
During the operation, authorities seized several pieces of equipment believed to have been used in the illicit operations. The haul included two changfan machines, 12 tipper trucks and three pay loaders, recovered at Dawa, Tropoli and Aveyime.
Some of the arrested individuals admitted to their activities during the operation and pleaded for leniency. NAIMOS officials expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for its support, noting that the partnership had strengthened efforts to clamp down on illegal sand‑winning across the country.
The Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining enforcement operations against unauthorised sand‑winning, citing the environmental threats posed by the practice. Meanwhile, the Volta River Authority (VRA) has warned of the risks associated with illegal sand‑winning along the basin. Excavations left by operators create deep pits in water bodies, exposing residents and other users to drowning hazards. Diesel and chemicals used in the operations could also contaminate water bodies, posing risks to public health and the environment.
The VRA is collaborating with the Environmental Protection Authority, the Water Resources Commission and the Minerals Commission to sensitize miners and promote compliance with environmental and mining regulations.
As the crackdown continues, authorities are monitoring the sites for further illegal activity and reinforcing enforcement to protect the Volta Basin’s ecological integrity and the safety of local communities.
