National Security Arrests Foreign Nationals Over Illegal Gold Trade in Ghana

Top Knowledge TV | National Affairs Desk

Accra, Ghana – In a major operation targeting economic crimes, Ghana’s National Security has arrested multiple foreign nationals suspected of engaging in the illegal gold trade — an activity that continues to rob the state of significant revenue and jeopardizes the integrity of Ghana’s natural resources.

The arrests, which took place during coordinated raids in parts of the Ashanti, Western, and Greater Accra regions, were conducted following months of surveillance and intelligence gathering. The operation uncovered unlicensed gold trading hubs, forged documentation, and evidence of attempts to smuggle gold out of the country.

???? Official Statement

In a press briefing held in Accra, a National Security spokesperson confirmed the arrests:

“We have taken into custody several individuals of foreign origin who were actively engaged in unauthorized gold transactions. Their actions constitute an economic threat and a gross violation of Ghana’s mineral laws.”

The suspects, whose nationalities include Chinese, Nigerian, and other West African nationals, are currently in custody pending further investigations and prosecution.

⚖️ Legal & Economic Implications

The Minerals and Mining Act of Ghana strictly prohibits any individual or group from trading in gold without proper licensing. Violations of this law can result in heavy fines, asset forfeiture, and jail terms.

Economic analysts say illegal gold trade is a major source of revenue loss to the state and weakens Ghana’s ability to fully benefit from its rich mineral deposits.

“Every ounce of gold smuggled out of Ghana is a blow to our economy,” said Dr. Patrick Owusu, an economist and lecturer at the University of Ghana. “The ripple effects affect foreign reserves, the cedi’s strength, and investor confidence.”

???? Foreign Involvement in Ghana’s Resource Sector

The involvement of foreign nationals in illegal mining and gold trade has been a growing concern in Ghana, especially with repeated reports of illegal mining ("galamsey") involving non-Ghanaians.

This latest arrest reignites debates on how to better secure Ghana’s gold value chain and ensure only licensed entities are allowed to operate.

????️ National Security’s Warning

Authorities have issued a stern warning to both local and foreign individuals involved in unauthorized mineral activities:

“Let this be a message: the era of unchecked exploitation of Ghana’s gold resources is over. We will continue to pursue and prosecute offenders — no matter their nationality or connections.”

???? Top Knowledge Insight:
The illegal gold trade is not just an economic issue but a national security threat. These latest arrests show Ghana’s commitment to cracking down on resource theft and protecting its national wealth from exploitation.