President John Dramani Mahama has warned that communities that attack security personnel and officials engaged in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) will face firm sanctions.
His caution follows recent violent incidents involving the National Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) task force at Hwidiem in the Ahafo Region and another attack on officials of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) near Obuasi. One of the EPA vehicles, which was carrying journalists, was involved in an accident while trying to avoid a possible assault.
Speaking at the 2025 GJA/KGL National Awards ceremony at the Manhyia Palace on Saturday, November 8, President Mahama stressed that such attacks hinder national efforts to protect the environment and preserve natural resources.
“The fight against illegal mining is complex and challenging. I wish to notify communities that attack security officials that firm action will be taken against them,” he said.
President Mahama added that after learning of the recent attack, he directed the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, to reach out to the affected journalists and support them with their medical expenses.
“When I received the news, I instructed the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, to contact the journalists and assist with settling their hospital bills,” he said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining a coordinated and sustained campaign against illegal mining, urging all citizens to cooperate fully in the national fight to protect Ghana’s environment.
