President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of any security personnel found engaging in illegal activities under the pretence of combating illegal mining, popularly known as "galamsey."

Speaking during his Thank You Tour in Sefwi Juaboso in the Western North Region, President Mahama expressed concern over growing reports of extortion by some members of the anti-galamsey taskforce.

He revealed that certain security operatives are allegedly harassing and demanding money from legally registered small-scale miners—actions he described as sabotaging national efforts to clamp down on illegal mining.

“Our forests, rivers, and green belts are national treasures, but we are alarmed by the environmental destruction that is reported across Awaso, Dadiaso, and Sefianyanso, mainly due to illegal mining,” the President stated.

Describing the situation as a national emergency, President Mahama said the National Taskforce will ramp up operations to protect forest reserves and water bodies from further degradation.

“I’ve also noted the activities of illegal anti-galamsey taskforces that go around extorting money from legitimate small-scale mining companies,” he added.

“I’ve requested that the authorities arrest and prosecute any individuals involved in these illegal actions.”

The President warned that no security officer—regardless of rank—will be shielded from accountability if found guilty of misconduct, stressing that legitimate miners must be protected, not preyed upon.