The National Anti‑Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) will conduct arrests of illegal miners within the confines of the law, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources confirmed on Thursday. The statement clarified that the task force is not expected to enter communities with an aggressive approach, but will take appropriate action if its officers face threats that could result in death or injury.
Paa Kwesi Schandorf, the Ministry’s Media Relations Officer, explained that NAIMOS’ primary responsibility is to enforce the law through arrests. He added that the task force would not hesitate to take action if its officers were threatened.
"When it comes to community obstructions or resistance, NAIMOS' first and principal point of call or consideration is to ensure that it acts within the remits of the law and doesn't do anything that can be construed as an excessive reaction," he said.
Schandorf further noted that each operation’s circumstances would determine the level of response required. He said,
"That notwithstanding, when the task force at any material moment is faced with imminent threats, threats that could actually lead to the loss of life of members of the task force or injury, appropriate and proportionate action will be taken," he stated.
The spokesperson emphasized that while NAIMOS is expected to carry out its duties peacefully, it may resort to decisive measures if the safety of its officers is at risk. He said such action would be guided by necessity and proportionality rather than aggression.
"But if at any point in the lawful execution of that mandate or duty, it emerges that NAIMOS has to employ other decisive actions to save the lives of its members, I think it will be done appropriately," he said.
Schandorf also referred to comments by sector minister Emmanuel Armah‑Kofi Buah, who has stated that NAIMOS members are entitled to defend themselves when circumstances make it necessary. He added that the task force would not resort to force without justification, insisting that the nature of the threat would determine the appropriate response.
"And so, it will be based on necessity. If there is no need for any intense action, NAIMOS typically will just do its civil operations and then arrest those who have to be arrested," Mr Schandorf said.
Officials reiterated that the task force’s mandate is to arrest illegal miners and enforce the law, not to initiate aggression. The Ministry will monitor operations to ensure compliance with legal standards while safeguarding the safety of its officers.
