Mahama Launches GoldBod Taskforce with 10% Reward for Whistle-blowers
New anti-galamsey unit promises professionalism, transparency, and citizen rewards to fight illegal mining and gold smuggling
Elohim Nyame 
President John Dramani Mahama has inaugurated the GoldBod Taskforce, a new multi-agency unit designed to combat illegal mining, gold smuggling, and corruption in Ghana’s extractive industry.
Speaking at the launch ceremony on Tuesday, 8 July, at the National Security Secretariat in Accra, the President announced a 10% reward in cash or gold for any whistle-blower whose tip-off leads to a successful recovery operation.
“Whistle-blower channels are in place, and informants are eligible to receive 10% of the seized gold or its cash value. So, whistle-blowers, get ready,” President Mahama said.
■A Professional and Transparent Force
The GoldBod Taskforce comprises officers from National Security, the Ghana Armed Forces, and other key security services. All members have undergone rigorous training, polygraph testing, anti-corruption orientation, and team-building exercises to uphold the highest ethical standards.
“This is not just another enforcement unit—it’s a reflection of our determination to protect Ghana’s natural wealth with integrity and professionalism,” the President said.
To ensure accountability, the President announced that taskforce members will wear body cameras, and all vehicles used in operations will be GPS-tracked and monitored in real-time. He also emphasised that no operation will be carried out without prior written approval from the taskforce CEO.
■ Targeting Galamsey and Gold Smuggling
A major priority of the taskforce will be cracking down on illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey, and tackling illicit gold exports that cost the nation significant revenue.
“This initiative will help secure the country’s mineral wealth, safeguard the environment, and ensure that the benefits of mining are shared fairly among all Ghanaians,” President Mahama stated.
He said the work of the GoldBod Taskforce fits into his government’s broader 24-hour economy vision, which seeks to strengthen enforcement, efficiency, and transparency across all sectors.
■ Whistle-blowers Encouraged
President Mahama urged citizens with credible information to make use of the established whistle-blower channels, reassuring them that they stand to gain 10% of any gold or money successfully recovered.
“National defence includes the defence of our economic resources. Through the GoldBod Taskforce, we are drawing a line—illegal gold smuggling and environmental destruction will no longer be tolerated,” he declared.
The GoldBod Taskforce is expected to begin full operations in the coming weeks.
