A Forestry Commission officer is fighting for his life after being attacked by illegal miners in Offin Shelterbelt Forest Reserve in the Ashanti Region.

The officer, a member of the Commission’s Rapid Response team, was ambushed by a group of miners wielding machetes and assault rifles as he attempted to stop illegal mining activities. He sustained a severe machete wound to his knee during the attack.

The incident occurred as the team entered the reserve to tackle the ongoing illegal mining, which has become a significant threat to the nation’s forests and water bodies.

Prior to the assault, the team had captured footage of armed individuals stationed at the forest’s entrance. As they moved deeper into the reserve, they were met by the miners, who had set up an ambush. The officer, whose identity has not been disclosed, is currently receiving medical treatment at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi.

Illegal mining in the Offin Shelterbelt Forest Reserve has been a persistent issue, with the Forestry Commission and security agencies actively working to protect these vital areas from further destruction. Authorities have yet to comment on the attack or disclose whether any arrests have been made.

The attack underscores the growing risks faced by officers working to preserve the country’s natural resources in the face of illegal mining activities.

Source:TheDotNews