The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) has firmly denied any affiliation with Kojo Peprah, the man arrested by the Special of the Ghana Police Service for allegedly interfering with an anti-illegal mining operation in the Ashanti Region.
In a statement released on Friday, July 11, GNASSM addressed what it described as “false media reports” linking Mr. Peprah to the association, and clarified that he has never been a member, chairman, or held any position within the organization.
“Kojo Peprah is not, and has never been, the President, Chairman, or member of GNASSM,” the association said in a disclaimer signed by its General Secretary, Godwin Nickleson Amark.
Mr. Peprah was arrested on July 10, 2025, at the Desiri Forest Reserve in the Ahafo Ano North District by the police taskforce during an operation targeting illegal mining activities. His arrest reportedly sparked confusion due to viral reports suggesting he was representing the small-scale miners’ association during the incident.
GNASSM, however, has moved to set the record straight, stating that its leadership structure is well-defined and that Peprah has no role or connection with the body.
“As an association, GNASSM remains firmly committed to responsible and sustainable small-scale mining practices,” the statement read. “We have consistently partnered with the government and security agencies in the ongoing fight against illegal mining (galamsey) across the country.”
The group further urged the public and the media to verify facts before spreading misinformation, especially on sensitive issues like illegal mining, which remains a major national concern.
“Combating galamsey is a shared national responsibility,” GNASSM noted. “We urge all to support government-led initiatives aimed at eradicating this menace.”
For additional clarity, the association encouraged media outlets to reach out to Abdul-Razak Alhassan, its National Director of Communications.
The GNASSM’s statement comes at a time when the government is intensifying its crackdown on illegal mining, with growing concerns over environmental degradation and the violation of mining regulations across various regions.
