Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson is calling for firm and uncompromising action against individuals and networks involved in gold smuggling, describing them as economic saboteurs. 

In a social media post, he urged the nation to rise against what he termed a “nation-wrecking act” that has gone unchecked for far too long.

“It is time for us to be decisive and ruthless towards those who are sabotaging the economy of Ghana,” Dr Forson stated. 

He warned that failure to act now could further weaken the country’s financial stability and limit future development opportunities. 

His comments come on the back of alarming revelations about the scale of gold smuggling, which has cost Ghana an estimated $12 billion over the last decade.

For too long, illicit smuggling has deprived our economy of billions in revenue and foreign exchange. This nation-wrecking act has gone on for far too long, and the consequences have been very dire.

3. For example, at the peak of our economic crisis in 2022, 60 tonnes of gold… pic.twitter.com/G7bVRsi6ID

— Cassiel Ato Forson (PhD) (@Cassielforson) July 8, 2025

According to the Minister, smuggling operations have not only robbed the nation of foreign exchange but also undermined efforts to stabilise the economy during moments of crisis. “Ghanaians deserve better,” he added, emphasising that the fight against smuggling is not merely an economic issue but a matter of national integrity and justice.

Dr Forson maintained that defeating gold smuggling syndicates would empower the state to take full control of its natural resources and redirect revenues into key developmental projects. 

“This is about protecting the future of Ghana. We cannot allow a few to rob the entire nation,” he said.