One Dead, Four Arrested After Gunfire Exchange Between Security Operatives and Suspected Illegal Miners in Atiwa Forest Reserve

One suspected illegal miner has been killed, another injured, and four others arrested following an exchange of gunfire between security operatives and suspected illegal miners in the Atiwa Forest Reserve in the Eastern Region.

The incident occurred on Monday, November 2, 2026, during an anti-illegal mining enforcement exercise dubbed Operation GREEN SHIELD, involving personnel from the Army Special Operations Brigade (ASOB).

According to an operational account, the security team advanced approximately 10 kilometres deeper into the forest after drone surveillance identified another suspected illegal mining site. The operation involved a foot patrol that lasted from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Upon reaching the location, the operatives reportedly encountered about 50 suspected illegal miners actively engaged in mining activities. Some of the miners allegedly attempted to flee after noticing the presence of the security personnel, while others reportedly opened fire on the team, resulting in an exchange of gunfire.

The operatives returned fire, leaving one suspected illegal miner dead and another injured. The injured individual was given first aid at the scene before being transported to the Kyebi Government Hospital for further medical attention.

During the operation, security personnel also recovered two pump-action guns and six rounds of ammunition believed to have been used in the confrontation.

Four suspects were subsequently arrested. They comprise three Malian nationals and one Ghanaian. The arrested individuals have since been handed over to the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) for further investigations and appropriate action.

No casualties were recorded among the security personnel involved in the operation.

The latest incident highlights the security challenges confronting authorities in their efforts to eliminate illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, particularly within protected forest reserves.

The Atiwa Forest Reserve remains an important ecological area, supporting biodiversity and serving as a source of water for several communities. Continued illegal mining activities pose serious threats to its vegetation, wildlife, river systems and surrounding environment.

Operation GREEN SHIELD forms part of ongoing government efforts to reclaim affected forest reserves, disrupt illegal mining networks and prevent miners from returning to areas already cleared by enforcement teams. MyJoyOnline +2