GNASSM Urges Government to Review Police Anti-Galamsey Taskforce After Fatal Clash in Amansie Central

The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) has called on the Government to urgently review and regulate the operations of police anti-illegal mining taskforces following a deadly clash in the Amansie Central District. The incident, which occurred at Bepotenten, resulted in the death of one person and left another severely injured.

Mr. Michael Adu Gyamfi, District Secretary of GNASSM

Describing the situation as “unfortunate and irresponsible,” Mr. Michael Adu Gyamfi, District Secretary of GNASSM, attributed the clashes to uncoordinated and poorly regulated police patrols in mining communities. According to him, these patrols, instead of curbing illegal mining, have in some cases been used for personal gain, causing distress among small-scale miners.

Mr. Adu Gyamfi revealed that, on some occasions, as many as three separate police taskforce teams—from regional, divisional, and district commands—visit the same mining site within a single day. Such duplication, he explained, often provokes reprisal attacks from miners, escalating tensions and increasing the risk of violence.

He added that numerous complaints and distress calls from victims in the Amansie enclave have compelled the District Chairman, Frank Osei, and other executives to engage with the Bekwai Regional Police Command multiple times, yet the situation remains unresolved.

While commending the structure and operations of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operation Secretariat (NAIMOS), Mr. Adu Gyamfi suggested that a similar framework should be applied to regional police operations. He emphasized that, although police interventions remain relevant, structured oversight is necessary to prevent abuse and maintain order in mining communities.

GNASSM’s call underscores the urgent need for coordinated, accountable, and transparent enforcement measures to curb illegal mining while safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of small-scale miners.

For more information or to report concerns, contact GNASSM via phone at 0244957700 or Hon. Damah at 0530604737.