Bonsu, E/R – November 10, 2025 | By NSMGhana
At approximately 6:06 p.m. on November 10, 2025, notorious galamsey kingpin Idrisu Zakari, popularly known as “Yaayaa,” was arrested at Bonsu following a covert operation led by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Squad (NAIMOS).
Sources close to the operation reveal that Yaayaa was apprehended shortly after meeting with NAIMOS operatives, where he allegedly attempted to negotiate the release of his detained associates and influence the ongoing investigation into his extensive illegal mining activities in the Osino area of the Eastern Region.
According to preliminary reports, the suspect had been under surveillance for weeks due to his alleged involvement in large-scale galamsey operations that have caused significant environmental damage in Osino and its surrounding communities. His arrest is seen as a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal mining, which continues to threaten Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves.
Officials from NAIMOS have confirmed that Zakari is currently in custody assisting with investigations. Further details are expected to emerge as authorities intensify their probe into the network behind his operations.
The arrest of “Yaayaa” sends a strong message from security agencies about the government’s renewed commitment to clamp down on illegal mining and hold key actors accountable, regardless of their influence or connections.
