Yamin, Abanga Deny Links to Rogue Anti-Galamsey Taskforce
NDC Executives Disown Group Accused of Harassing Small-Scale Miners
Edem Latsu Nukafu 
Two senior national executives of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) — Joseph Yamin, National Organiser, and Yakubu Abanga, Third Vice Chairman — have strongly denied allegations linking them to a rogue anti-galamsey taskforce allegedly involved in extortion and intimidation of small-scale miners across Ghana.
The Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana (CSSMAG) accused the two politicians of backing a parallel, unauthorised taskforce, operating in mining communities such as Sekondi, Bekwai, Offinso, and Prestea. The group claims that armed individuals in military-style uniforms have been invoking the names of Yamin and Abanga to extort money and threaten miners.
However, in separate statements and interviews, both Yamin and Abanga categorically denied any involvement and called on national security to swiftly arrest those impersonating them.
“I would be the last to sanction any illegal taskforce,” Yamin said on Sunday, July 13, 2025. “I’ve never engaged in mining and urge authorities to act against those misusing my name.”
He added that he has repeatedly reported illegal mining activities to the relevant agencies and called on miners to report or detain impostors claiming to represent him or the NDC.
In a press statement, Yamin further clarified:
“I am not part of any galamsey taskforce, nor have I been consulted on such matters. I do not own a concession, nor do I engage in mining.”
Yamin stressed that only state security agencies are legally mandated to form and operate anti-galamsey taskforces.
Yakubu Abanga echoed these views, describing the allegations as false and misleading.
“I am a licensed miner with concessions in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire,” he said. “I would never support illegal operations, especially when I’ve suffered losses myself — some of my concessions have been seized, and I’m currently in court over it.”
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to legal mining practices and called for accountability and strict enforcement of the law to eliminate the menace of illegal mining and impersonation.
The accusations and denials have reignited calls for greater regulation of mining enforcement and transparency in the formation of taskforces nationwide.
