The Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana has accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's government of targeting its members in the renewed fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
The Association said instead of fighting the menace, the government has directed its taskforce to harass its members who are properly licensed to carry out mining activities in specific areas.
Last week, the government announced it has enhanced measures to strengthen the ongoing "Operation Halt," led by the Ghana Armed Forces, aimed at eliminating illegal mining activities in water bodies.
Speaking to Power Kasiebo on October 16, 2024, the President of the Association, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, said the taskforce was ordered not to enter forest reserves because NPP appointees are mining in those areas.