Two national executives of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Joseph Yamin, National Organiser, and Yakubu Abanga, have firmly denied allegations linking them to an illegal anti-galamsey taskforce accused of extorting money and harassing small-scale miners across Ghana.
The allegations originated from the Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana (CSSMGG), which claimed that a rogue taskforce, allegedly operating under the influence or support of Yamin and Abanga, has been terrorizing miners in various communities. The miners highlighted incidents in Sekondi, Bekwai, Offinso, and Prestea, where heavily armed individuals dressed in military gear purportedly invoked the names of the two political figures while engaging in acts of extortion and intimidation.
In separate interviews, both Yamin and Abanga categorically rejected the accusations and called on national security authorities to take action against anyone impersonating them or misusing their names for illicit activities.
“I would be the last to sanction the activities of any illegal taskforce or group,” Yamin stated during an interview on Sunday, July 13, 2025. He emphasized, “I have never engaged in mining, and I urge security agencies to act swiftly against any individuals using my name to harass legitimate miners.” Yamin also noted that he has previously reported illegal mining activities to the authorities, with his latest report involving a case in the Eastern Region.
He encouraged miners to apprehend anyone claiming to represent him or the NDC in such operations, reinforcing his stance against illegal mining practices.
Yakubu Abanga, the party’s 3rd Vice Chairperson, similarly denied any involvement, asserting that he has not authorized anyone to operate on his behalf regarding such matters. “I am a licensed miner with concessions in Ashanti, Western, and even in Côte d’Ivoire,” Abanga said. “I would never undermine the government’s anti-galamsey efforts, especially when I have been a victim myself, having some of my concessions taken from me and currently battling the matter in court.”
Both leaders emphasized their commitment to supporting legal mining operations and upholding the rule of law, distancing themselves from any groups engaged in illegal activities in the guise of an anti-galamsey campaign.
In a press statement addressing these claims, Yamin clarified: “For the record, I am not part of any galamsey taskforce, nor have I been consulted or invited to contribute ideas on how to address illegal mining activities involving some small-scale miners. If any individual or group is parading as a taskforce using my name, such actions are illegal and must be stopped immediately.”
He urged the Concerned Small-Scale Miners to dissociate him from their claims and to address their grievances through appropriate legal and regulatory institutions for a lasting solution.
Both Yamin and Abanga’s responses highlight their commitment to legality and transparency in the ongoing fight against illegal mining operations in the country.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
