An environmental group, Green Traceability Minds Foundation, has accused security personnel of taking money from licensed small-scale and cooperative miners.
The group stated this practice is a major reason why land damaged by mining is not being reclaimed across Ghana.
Investigations by the foundation at several mining locations revealed that security operatives are involved in persistent harassment.
This alleged extortion creates difficulties for miners trying to follow legal procedures.
The foundation believes these actions hinder efforts to restore degraded mining lands.
The accusations highlight a challenge in the fight against illegal mining and its environmental impact.
Further details on the specific security personnel involved have not been released.
The group is calling for an end to these alleged corrupt practices.