The Ashanti Chapter of the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) has voiced significant concerns regarding the proliferation of unregulated task forces operating under the guise of combating illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. These groups, often lacking clear mandates and oversight, are accused of harassing and extorting licensed small-scale miners across the region. Michael Adu Gyamfi, Secretary of the Ashanti Chapter, highlighted on June 30, 2025, that the situation has deteriorated, with multiple uncoordinated teams frequently visiting the same mining sites, all claiming different affiliations (national, regional, district) and leading to intimidation and financial exploitation of miners.

While the Association supports genuine government efforts to curb illegal mining, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas like forest reserves and river bodies, Gyamfi criticized the current approach as chaotic and counterproductive. He specifically questioned the Minerals Development Fund's (MDF) unexpected role in leading some recent enforcement operations, which has added to the confusion on the ground. GNASSM urges the government to streamline anti-galamsey efforts, advocating for only task forces with defined mandates, proper identification, and accountability structures to operate in small-scale mining communities.

In response to these escalating complaints, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has acknowledged the concerns and announced plans to regulate and streamline the operations of these task forces. Mawusi Mawuenyaefia, Director of Communications at the Ministry, stated on June 30, 2025, that efforts are underway to implement an identification system to clearly distinguish legitimate anti-galamsey operatives. She emphasized that operations are not arbitrary and involve thorough investigations and coordination with local authorities, including chiefs and district chief executives, before any field action is taken.

Adding to the discourse, Dr. Ken Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines and Convener of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to declare a state of emergency in areas severely affected by illegal mining. Dr. Ashigbey noted that a renewed urgency in the fight against galamsey has unfortunately led to increased resistance from illegal miners, who are now resorting to attacking state officials. He cited incidents where anti-galamsey operatives and Forestry Commission officers have come under attack, underscoring the perilous conditions in certain mining zones.

Despite some criticisms, Dr. Ashigbey expressed strong support for the actions of Dr. Hanna Louisa Bisiw-Kotei, Administrator of the Minerals Development Fund, in combating galamsey, asserting that any effort is valuable. He further revealed that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has established the National Anti-Mining and Oversight Secretariat (NAMOS) to coordinate various anti-galamsey initiatives for enhanced efficiency and accountability. Dr. Ashigbey stressed the critical need for a unified front, urging all stakeholders, including political leaders, security agencies, and civil society organizations, to support these efforts and collectively address the menace of illegal mining.