President John Mahama has declared the widespread environmental devastation caused by illegal mining a national emergency, promising urgent action to confront the deepening crisis.

Addressing a durbar during his ‘Thank You Tour’ of the Western North Region on Tuesday, July 15, he expressed grave concern over the extent of destruction in Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi Anhwiaso.

The President blamed illegal mining activities for the alarming degradation of forest reserves and water bodies.

“We are alarmed by the environmental destruction that is reported across Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi-Anhwiaso, mainly due to illegal mining. I must be honest, this is a national emergency.

"The national taskforce will continue its efforts to halt illegal mining in our forest reserves and on our water bodies,” President Mahama said.

He did not spare individuals hiding behind the fight against galamsey to perpetrate extortion.

President Mahama condemned the activities of illegal task forces reportedly extorting money from licensed small-scale miners.

“I have also noticed the activities of the illegal anti-galamsey taskforces that go round extorting money from legitimate small-scale mining companies,” he noted.

“I have requested the authorities to arrest and prosecute any individuals involved in this illegal anti-galamsey activity,” he warned.