A recent exposé by JoyNews Hotline Documentary, produced by JoyNews and part of the Multimedia Group, has uncovered deeply troubling allegations of a so-called “galamsey tax” system.

The investigation, titled “A Tax for Galamsey,” revealed that some district assemblies in Ghana’s mining communities allegedly collected fees from operators using banned mining equipment.

According to A Rocha Ghana, represented by Deputy National Director Daryl Bosu, the revelations point to systemic failures within local government structures.

Mr Bosu strongly criticised the government’s response, describing the alleged actions as a direct violation of Ghana’s mining laws, including the Minerals and Mining Act (Act 995).

He warned that the issuance of stickers and collection of fees from illegal miners effectively legitimises their operations, undermining national efforts to combat illegal mining.

The exposé has intensified scrutiny on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), whom some observers describe as the “weakest link” in the anti-galamsey fight.

Speaking during the national dialogue,e hosted by JoyNews National Dialogue, Alexander Akwasi Acquah revealed he possessed receipts allegedly issued by assemblies to illegal miners under the guise of fines.

Meanwhile, Kenneth Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines and convenor of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, praised investigative journalists for exposing the issue.

He called for the arrest and prosecution of officials implicated in issuing illegal permits and stickers.

He also raised concerns about banned equipment such as “changfans” and excavators continuing to operate despite government tracking systems.

Michael Quaicoe of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference emphasised that enforcement must go beyond rhetoric.

He stressed that offenders must face arrest, prosecution, and imprisonment to restore public trust and deter future violations.

However, Elikem Kotoko of the Forestry Commission defended the government’s commitment, expressing confidence in John Mahama’s resolve to address illegal mining.

Kotoko explained that while interdiction of officials is possible, due process must be followed, and investigations are currently underway.