A routine anti-galamsey operation in the Atwima Mponua District has taken a dramatic turn after four National Security operatives were allegedly detained for nearly 30 hours following the arrest of a Chinese national and his Ghanaian accomplices involved in illegal mining activities.
The officers, who operate primarily in the Atwima Kwanwoma, Atwima Nwabiagya, and Atwima Mponua districts, claim their detention and the seizure of property followed what they describe as a coordinated raid on illegal mining at Kwanfifii.
Details of the Operation
The officers—Nana Akom Owusu Agyarko, National Security Officer in charge of Sand-winning and Galamsey Operations; Samuel Nsor, Atwima Kwanwoma District Assistant Liaison Officer; and McDonald Toku and Stephen Agyemang, both from the National Command—reported receiving intelligence on February 4, 2026, about illegal mining activities at Kwanfifii.
According to their account, they obtained approval from their superiors before proceeding. Upon arrival, they confirmed the activity and arrested the suspects, notifying Ashanti Regional National Security Coordinator Captain (Retired) John Kwame Jabari, who allegedly instructed them to convey the detainees to the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC).
Unexpected Detention by Police
The operation, however, reportedly took a surprising turn en route to the RCC. The operatives claim they were intercepted by officers from the Nkawie-Toase Divisional Police Command, led by ASP Noah Yakpa. The police allegedly informed them that intelligence suggested the National Security officers were armed robbers.
Despite identifying themselves, the operatives allege they were threatened at gunpoint, arrested, and detained at the Nkawie-Toase Police Station. Upon arrival, a vehicle was already prepared to transport the arrested Chinese miner and his accomplices, according to the officers.
The operatives were later transferred to the RCC, where they expected to be released, only to be detained overnight and have their belongings, including a vehicle owned by NDC Constituency Chairman Alonga and used in the operation, seized.
Allegations Against Senior Officials
Nana Akom Owusu Agyarko stated that the site raided belongs to Captain (Retired) John Kwame Jabari and his brother, Solomon Jabari. He claimed attempts to reach Captain Jabari have been unsuccessful and appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to intervene.
“I am pleading with President Mahama to take swift action against some of his appointees whose actions undermine the fight against illegal mining,” Nana Akom Owusu Agyarko said.
Samuel Nsor further expressed concern for their safety. “Our lives are at risk because those we worked with now appear to prioritize illegal miners over us. If galamsey has been legalized, we need to be informed,” he added.
Response From Captain Jabari
When contacted, Captain (Retired) John Kwame Jabari acknowledged knowing the officers but denied authorizing the operation. He indicated that disciplinary measures could be taken against the officers.
“Yes, I know them. They are National Security officers, but my office did not sanction the operation. Disciplinary action, including possible suspension or expulsion, will serve as a deterrent,” he said.
Ongoing Galamsey Concerns
Sources suggest that the arrested Chinese national and accomplices have since returned to the forest, resuming illegal mining activities, raising renewed concerns over the effectiveness of anti-galamsey efforts in the Ashanti Region.
The incident has sparked public debate about coordination among security agencies and the commitment of government officials to combat illegal mining.
Contact Information of the Officers Involved:
Samuel Nsor – Deputy Liaison Officer, National Security, Atwima Kwanwoma – 024 120 3386
Nana Akom Owusu – Sand Winning & Galamsey Operations, Atwima Kwanwoma – 024 933 8551
McDonald Toku – National Security – 024 445 1255
Stephen Agyemang – National Security – 053 608 8728
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