CAGG calls on AG to probe Sammy Gyamfi’s alleged illegal mining remarks

The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (CAGG) has requested the Office of the Attorney-General to investigate Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, over alleged remarks that artisanal miners could operate without licences if they avoided forest reserves and water bodies. The coalition dismissed the comments as reckless and unlawful, warning they could undermine the fight against illegal mining.

CAGG emphasized Ghana's mining laws prohibit operating without a licence, regardless of location, citing relevant sections of the Minerals and Mining Act. The coalition demanded GoldBod CEO withdrawal of the remarks and an apology, urging President Mahama, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, and the Minerals Commission to clarify that mining without a licence remains illegal.

CAGG also urged strengthening security measures to protect affected communities and establish rapid-response systems for land encroachment.