President John Dramani Mahama has initiated a clampdown on individuals fraudulently posing as members of Ghana’s anti-galamsey taskforce. His directive follows a series of reports alleging that certain persons, dressed in official-looking uniforms, have been operating in mining communities across the Ashanti and Western Regions and extorting money from licensed small-scale miners.
According to a statement issued by the Office of the President and reported by TV3 on July 16, 2025, the government received multiple complaints that these impersonators were threatening legal mining operators under the guise of enforcing anti-illegal mining laws.
In response, the President has instructed national security agencies and the police to arrest anyone caught misrepresenting themselves as part of the official anti-galamsey operations. These actions, he stressed, are unlawful and jeopardize the government’s ongoing efforts to regulate small-scale mining while preserving the nation’s environment and resources.
The presidency emphasized that real members of the anti-galamsey taskforce operate under formal structures, carry valid identification, and are strictly prohibited from soliciting or accepting payments from miners. Any deviation from these standards, particularly when accompanied by intimidation or bribery, is considered criminal.
Citizens and miners have been urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity or individuals claiming to represent the government but engaging in extortion or harassment. The administration reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating illegal mining and maintaining a secure environment for properly licensed mining operations.
Mahama’s decision signals a strong stance against corruption and exploitation within the sector, as well as an effort to reinforce legitimacy and trust in Ghana’s regulatory frameworks.
