The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association of Ghana (NCSSMAG) has issued a firm warning to community and opinion leaders across the country against protecting individuals engaged in illegal mining activities.

Through its special anti-illegal mining task force, the association cautioned that any local leader found harbouring or assisting illegal miners would be held equally accountable under the law.

The group said such conduct undermines the national campaign to safeguard water bodies, forest reserves, and the environment from further degradation.

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During a recent operation at Nyamedomso near Mankranso in the Ahafo Ano South West District, the task force dismantled several makeshift mining structures, destroyed four Changfan engines, and seized quantities of fuel and other materials used in the unlawful activity.

Similar raids at Amadaa and Kotokuom in the Atwima Mponua District saw illegal miners fleeing the scene, leaving behind machinery believed to have been used to pollute the River Offin.

Speaking after the operation, Taskforce Committee member Philip Bawa stressed that the association was determined to complement government efforts to sanitise the small-scale mining sector.

He expressed concern that some traditional and community leaders continue to shield offenders, thereby frustrating enforcement actions.

“We are warning all community leaders that the law applies to everyone. If you harbour illegal miners or protect them in any form, you will be treated as an accomplice,” Mr Bawa cautioned.

He further urged community leaders to support the government’s interventions in the mining sector, including formalised small-scale mining schemes, to create lawful and sustainable employment for their people.

“We will not remain silent while the actions of a few individuals destroy our rivers, lands and the image of the entire mining industry,” he said.

The taskforce, which includes trained divers, continues to recover abandoned mining equipment from river bodies and is expanding its operations nationwide as part of its ongoing campaign against galamsey.