President John Mahama has inaugurated a special task force under the Ghana Gold Board to enforce gold trade regulations and crack down on illegal exports.
This unit is equipped with body-worn cameras, vehicles tracked by GPS, and a reward system for whistleblowers who report any misconduct.
The inauguration took place in Accra on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, as part of the broader implementation of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140), which aims to formalize the gold trade and enhance accountability within the sector.
Speaking at the event, the President emphasized that the task force members had been carefully selected and trained. He noted that all personnel had completed polygraph examinations, anti-corruption training, and team-building exercises prior to their deployment. Furthermore, he stated that every field operation must receive written authorization from the Chief Executive Officer of the Gold Board and will be monitored in real-time.
"Every officer will be equipped with a body camera. Every vehicle will be tracked via GPS. There will be no tolerance for abuse," President Mahama asserted.
Additionally, he revealed that individuals who provide reliable information leading to the confiscation of gold or cash would be rewarded with 10 percent of the recovered value.
The President cautioned that any member of the task force found guilty of misconduct would face immediate termination, legal action, and forfeiture of benefits. "This is not business as usual. It is a matter of national duty and pride," he declared.
The task force is anticipated to function as a collaborative security unit comprising personnel from the military, national security, and various law enforcement agencies. Its responsibilities include enforcing laws that prohibit unlicensed gold trading and preventing foreigners from purchasing gold in Ghana's local market.
According to the new Act, individuals convicted of illegal gold trading may incur fines of up to GH¢2.4 million or face imprisonment ranging from five to ten years, or both.