By: Ashiadey Dotse
President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that whistleblowers who provide useful information on illegal gold trading and smuggling leading to the recovery of gold or money will receive 10% of the seized value.
“If you blow the whistle on someone and gold or cash is recovered, you will get 10% of the total value,” President Mahama said, encouraging the public to report illegal activities.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony in Accra on Tuesday July 7, 2025, the President highlighted measures to ensure accountability within the task force.
He indicated that all officers will wear body cameras during operations, and the vehicles they use will be tracked in real time with GPS. He added that no officer can go into the field without written permission from the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the GoldBod.
“Let me be clear — abuse of power will not be tolerated. Any officer found guilty of misconduct will face severe punishment, including dismissal, prosecution, and loss of all entitlements,” he warned.
President Mahama also reminded the public about the laws under the GoldBod Act. The Act bans unlicensed trading and prevents foreigners from buying gold directly on the local market. Anyone who breaks these laws could face a fine of up to GH₵2.4 million, a jail term of five to ten years, or both.
However, he noted that foreign companies can still apply for licenses through the GoldBod to legally invest in refining and value addition in the gold sector.
“Operate within the law, or face the full consequences,” the President stated.
The President also explained that GoldBod’s responsibilities go beyond buying and exporting gold. It is also tasked with ensuring environmental safety, tracking the source of gold, and supporting responsible mining.
He has directed GoldBod to introduce a nationwide traceability system that will track every gram of gold back to its licensed, environmentally safe origin.
In addition, the GoldBod will support land restoration projects like the Blue Water and Tree for Life initiatives and assist small-scale miners with geological surveys to protect the environment and increase productivity.
“This will help small miners know exactly where to dig and avoid destroying large areas unnecessarily,” Mahama explained.
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