Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy
President John Dramani Mahama has inaugurated the GoldBod Taskforce, a specialized unit comprising personnel from the National Security, military, and other key security agencies.
The taskforce’s primary objective is to protect Ghana’s natural resources and ensure the responsible management of its gold industry.
During the inauguration ceremony at the National Security Secretariat in Accra, President Mahama announced a significant incentive for whistleblowers, stating, “Whistleblower channels are in place, and informants are eligible to receive 10% of the seized gold or the cash value. So, whistleblowers, get ready. If you blow the whistle and gold or money is recovered, you will get 10%.”
This move aims to encourage citizens to report suspicious activities and collaborate with the authorities to curb illicit gold trading.
He emphasized that the taskforce’s establishment demonstrates NDC administration’s commitment to tackling corruption and ensuring accountability in the extractive sector. 
He highlighted the rigorous training, vetting, and orientation that taskforce members have undergone, including polygraph testing and anti-corruption training, to ensure their professionalism and integrity.
To ensure accountability, taskforce members will operate under strict oversight, wearing body cameras during operations and utilizing GPS-tracked vehicles monitored in real-time.
He added , all field operations will require proper authorization, with a written warrant from the CEO necessary before any action is taken. “A written warrant from the CEO is required before any field operation is undertaken,” he cautioned.
Undoubtedly, with the GoldBod Taskforce now operational, President Mahama has sent a strong message that his administration will not tolerate gold smuggling and corruption, and those who provide credible information will be rewarded for their efforts.
