President John Dramani Mahama has described the surge in illegal mining activities across parts of the country as a national emergency, vowing intensified efforts to address the growing crisis.

He specifically condemned the environmental destruction caused by galamsey in Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi Anhwiaso, and reiterated the government’s commitment to clamp down on illegal mining operations.

Speaking at a durbar during his ‘Thank You Tour’ of the Western North Region on Tuesday, July 15, President Mahama stated:

“We are alarmed by the environmental destruction that is reported across Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi-Anhwiaso, mainly due to illegal mining. I must be honest, this is a national emergency. The national taskforce will continue its efforts to halt illegal mining in our forest reserves and on our water bodies,” He said.

He also issued a stern warning to so-called anti-galamsey task forces that are reportedly extorting money from licensed small-scale mining operators.

“I have also noticed the activities of the illegal anti-galamsey taskforces that go round extorting money from legitimate small-scale mining companies.

“I have requested the authorities to arrest and prosecute any individuals involved in this illegal anti-galamsey activity,” President Mahama warned.