The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association of Ghana has raised serious concerns about alleged unlawful actions by the government’s anti-galamsey taskforce, accusing it of targeting miners who operate within legal boundaries.
Speaking at a press conference in Kumasi, the Association’s national president, Kwadwo Peprah, claimed that taskforce members have seized and destroyed mining equipment without justification, even from the homes of miners.
“We have credible reports that the government’s anti-galamsey taskforce has been engaged in unlawful activities, including the unwarranted seizure and destruction of excavators belonging to our members, many of whom operate within the legal framework,” Peprah said.
“In several instances, equipment has been forcibly taken from miners’ homes, where they were not in use, raising serious questions about the legitimacy of these actions.”
Mr. Peprah warned that the approach adopted by the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration could repeat the mistakes of the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, whose crackdown on illegal mining was widely criticized for being counterproductive.
“This sector remains vital to Ghana’s economic growth, and we believe its actors deserve to be treated with fairness, respect, and legal protection,” he said.
“Harassment and destruction of legally acquired mining equipment are not sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the industry.”
The Association called for reforms that empower licensed small-scale miners to operate responsibly while upholding environmental standards.
“Such reforms should aim at empowering small-scale miners to operate responsibly, adhere to regulations, and contribute to environmental sustainability,” Peprah added.
“Our demand is simple and reasonable: introduce reforms that will enable lawful, safe, and environmentally sound mining. We do not seek favouritism or protection for illegal operations.”
