Ghana’s Battle Against Crime in Gold Mining

Editorial: reda El ghazal

As Africa’s leading gold producer, Ghana depends significantly on artisanal mining for a large part of its gold output. A recent Global Initiative report shows organized crime deeply influences this sector, which contributes over 30% of national production. Shockingly, 24-30 tonnes of undeclared gold worth $1.74 billion flowed from these operations in 2022, enabling massive money laundering and corruption. Chinese operators control sites through local partners, using heavy machinery while funneling profits into gambling and real estate.

Environmental and social damage worsens daily. Mercury and cyanide pollution poisons landscapes while unchecked deforestation ravages ecosystems. The sector exploits workers, puts women at risk, and fuels violent community clashes. Efforts to regulate mining, like the Community Mining Scheme, fail due to bribery allegations against local leaders.

In March 2025, Ghana struck back. Police arrested over 300 suspects nationwide—including 46 Chinese nationals—with Samreboi as the main target. Authorities seized bulldozers, excavators, guns, and mining gear, showing new determination to stop illegal mining.