The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association has expressed concern over what it describes as targeted harassment and the unlawful seizure of equipment by the government’s anti-galamsey taskforce.

In a statement issued by its President, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, the association accused the John Dramani Mahama-led government of engaging in actions that undermine small-scale mining operations in the country.

“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,” the statement said.

It further claimed that in several communities, equipment has been forcibly taken from miners' homes, where the machines were not in active use—an action that raises serious legal and ethical concerns.

“We do not seek favouritism or protection for illegal operations,” Peprah added. “Instead, we advocate for a transparent, inclusive system that allows all legitimate actors in the sector to operate without fear or victimization.”

The association cautioned that the current trajectory risks repeating the failures of the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government’s anti-galamsey campaign, which also faced criticism for human rights violations and lack of transparency.

“The current approach by the NDC administration risks repeating the failed anti-galamsey strategies of the previous NPP government. Harassment and destruction of legally acquired mining equipment are not sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the industry,” the statement noted.

The association further reminded the government of its 2024 campaign pledge to support small-scale miners with modern technology and capacity-building programs to promote responsible and sustainable mining.

“During the 2024 election campaign, the then-opposition NDC made a clear promise to support and equip small-scale miners with modern technology and skills to streamline our operations,” it indicated.

It urged authorities to pursue reforms that enable safe, lawful, and environmentally sound mining rather than resorting to what they describe as “harassment and destruction of legally acquired mining equipment.”

Read the full statement below:



JKB/MA

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