A coordinated operation between the Forestry Commission’s Rapid Response Unit (RRU) and the Ghana Armed Forces has resulted in the seizure of 10 excavators, a bulldozer, and the arrest of four individuals involved in illegal mining activities within the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve, located in the Western North Region.

The operation, which took place on Sunday, March 9, 2025, targeted Compartments 17 and 20 of the reserve, areas that had experienced repeated incursions by illegal miners despite previous efforts to evict them. This crackdown followed a raid on March 4, where forestry officials and the RRU successfully forced out 12 excavators but were unable to make arrests due to the miners’ armed resistance.

Intelligence gathered on March 6 indicated that miners were planning a return to the area, prompting forestry authorities to heighten security measures. However, despite these efforts, illegal miners regrouped and re-entered the reserve on March 8, undermining previous enforcement actions. Faced with overwhelming numbers and weapons, the enforcement team escalated the situation by calling in military support.

In response, a heavily armed joint task force was deployed to the site. Their intervention proved effective, leading to the confiscation of mining equipment and the arrest of four individuals involved in the illegal operations.

This operation highlights the persistent challenge posed by illegal mining in Ghana’s forest reserves, a practice that contributes to environmental degradation and threatens biodiversity. The Forestry Commission has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s natural resources and warned that further operations will follow to prevent further destruction of protected areas.

Authorities have also called on the public to report illegal mining activities, stressing the importance of collective action in preserving the environment for future generations.

Source:TheDotNews