BPS demands arrest, probe of MP over attack on NAIMOS task force

The Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) has called for the immediate arrest and investigation of Member of Parliament for Asutifi North, Hon. Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, and his alleged accomplices over a violent attack on officers from the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) at Bronikrom, near Hwidiem in the Ahafo Region.

In a statement issued on Monday, November 3, 2025, the Bureau described the incident — which involved the assault of the NAIMOS Director of Operations and his team — as a “clear obstruction of law enforcement officers in the discharge of their lawful duties,” condemning it in the strongest possible terms.

According to the BPS, the MP allegedly led a group of thugs who attacked the task force during an anti-galamsey operation. The assault reportedly involved the destruction of property and endangered the lives of public officials and military personnel on duty.

The Bureau is demanding:

• Immediate arrest and interrogation of Hon. Ebenezer Kwaku Addo and all individuals involved in the attack.
• A full-scale investigation by the Ghana Police Service, with support from the Ghana Armed Forces, into the role of the MP and the handling of the incident at the Hwidiem Police Station.
• Protective measures for NAIMOS officers, soldiers, and witnesses to ensure their safety and cooperation during investigations.
• A Parliamentary inquiry to determine disciplinary or criminal sanctions if the MP is found to have interfered with law enforcement operations.
• Strengthening of operational security protocols for all anti-illegal mining task forces.

“The Bureau reiterates that no individual, regardless of political office or influence, is above the law,” the statement said. “Attacks on law enforcement personnel undermine national security, embolden criminal networks, and threaten the fight against illegal mining — a menace destroying Ghana’s water bodies, forests, and livelihoods.”

The call follows reports that police in Hwidiem had to rescue a team of military officers from NAIMOS after they came under attack from a mob during an anti-galamsey operation.

The soldiers had earlier arrested two suspected illegal miners and seized vehicles and weapons at a mining site about 10 meters from the Hwidiem–Goaso Highway.

Several individuals, including a Burkinabe national, were arrested, and the site — which showed signs of severe land degradation and water pollution — was later sealed off.

Calm has since been restored to the area, while the arrested miners remain in custody assisting with investigations.

The Bureau of Public Safety said it would continue to monitor developments closely and could petition the Speaker of Parliament and the Inspector-General of Police to ensure justice and accountability in the matter.