The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has paid tribute to Lance Corporal Collins Agyapong Safo, the NAIMOS soldier who died during an authorised anti–illegal mining operation in Obuasi.
Safo died on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, after an accident during a field operation targeting galamsey activities. At the time of his death, he held the rank of Private.
Speaking at the burial service on Friday, December 19, at the Arakan Presbyterian/Methodist Church at Burma Camp, the minister described the loss as a painful one for the nation, extending condolences to the bereaved family.
He said the death had deeply affected President John Dramani Mahama, the Lands Ministry and the wider country, stressing that the government remained committed to intensifying the fight against illegal mining in honour of fallen security personnel.
“The sacrifice of officers like Collins Safo will not be in vain,” the minister said, reaffirming government’s resolve to sustain the anti-galamsey campaign.
NAIMOS Director of Operations, Colonel Dominic Buah, also paid an emotional tribute, describing the late soldier as disciplined, affable and full of promise. He said he personally trained Safo and later worked with him again when the young officer was deployed to NAIMOS operations.
Despite the loss, Colonel Buah said the Secretariat would remain focused on its mandate, vowing to step up efforts against what he termed environmental terrorism.
During the service, the military command announced Safo’s posthumous promotion from Private to Lance Corporal, noting that he had already qualified for elevation before his death.
The government also presented an undisclosed donation to the family in recognition of the late soldier’s service and dedication to duty.
