Mahama declares Illegal mining a national emergency
Edem Latsu Nukafu 
President John Dramani Mahama has described the incline in illegal mining activities across parts of the country as a national emergency, pledgi intensified efforts to tackle the surging crisis.
He particularly denounced the environmental degration caused by galamsey in Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi Anhwiaso and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to curtail galamsey operations.
Addressing gathering at a durbar during his ‘Thank You Tour’ of the Western North Region on Tuesday, July 15, President Mahama mentioned:
“We are alarmed by the environmental destruction that is reported across Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi-Anhwiaso, mainly due to illegal mining. I must be honest, this is a national emergency. The national taskforce will continue its efforts to halt illegal mining in our forest reserves and on our water bodies,” He vented.
He also issued a stern caution to so-called anti-galamsey task forces that are purportedly taking funds from licensed small-scale mining operators.
“I have also noticed the activities of the illegal anti-galamsey taskforces that go round extorting money from legitimate small-scale mining companies.
“I have requested the authorities to arrest and prosecute any individuals involved in this illegal anti-galamsey activity,” President Mahama cautioned.
