By Prince Ahenkorah
China has pledged its firm support for Ghana’s intensified fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, and the growing menace of cybercrime.
Ghana and China have agreed to deepen cooperation in the area of law enforcement, with Beijing committing to assist the assist Ghana in tackling illegal mining, cyber fraud, terrorism, and other forms of cross-border criminal activities that threaten national security.
Interior Minister, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, announced the agreement after leading a high-level delegation to China for bilateral talks with the Ministry of Public Security on Monday, September 22, 2025.
Muntaka said the discussions marked a new phase in Ghana–China relations, shifting beyond the traditional focus on trade and infrastructure development to embrace critical areas of policing, intelligence sharing, and security cooperation.
He emphasized that the fight against modern threats such as terrorism, cyber fraud, and transnational crime requires the adoption of advanced technology and stronger institutional partnerships.
According to a statement issued by the Interior Ministry, the talks covered several strategic areas, including enhancing communication among law enforcement agencies, building institutional capacity, and offering specialized training for security personnel.
Muntaka explained that China’s support would focus on both capacity building and the provision of practical skills for Ghana’s police service and other national security agencies, enabling them to better respond to emerging security challenges.
China’s Vice Minister of Public Security, Mr. Ling Zhifeng, confirmed Beijing’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with Ghana.
He noted that both countries would work closely through INTERPOL to ensure international cooperation in addressing cross-border crime.
The discussions also touched on China’s candidacy for the position of Vice President of INTERPOL, with Beijing seeking Ghana’s support for the bid.
Muntaka also pointed out that the agreement would directly contribute to addressing the destructive impact of illegal mining in Ghana, which has devastated lands and rivers, while also enhancing the safety and protection of Chinese nationals living and working in the country.
He described the outcome of the meeting as a landmark step in Ghana–China security cooperation and expressed confidence that the partnership would yield long-term benefits.
Muntaka further stressed that the collaboration demonstrated both nations’ recognition that security is a shared responsibility in today’s interconnected world.