The Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Enchi Forest District of the Western North Region was invaded by a team of 30 military officers and the Forestry Commission’s (FC) Rapid Response Unit (RRU).
They arrested four people involved in illegal mining and seized nine excavators and one bulldozer.
On Sunday, March 9, 2025, the operation was conducted in the reserve’s compartments 17 and 20.
This firm move came after a string of earlier actions meant to curb illegal mining in the forest reserve:
March 4, 2025: A team from the Forest Services Division (FSD) of the FC, along with the RRU, stormed the reserve after receiving a tip-off about illegal mining. The team successfully drove out 12 excavators but was unable to make any arrests as the miners, who were heavily armed, outnumbered them.
March 6, 2025: Acting on intelligence that the miners planned to return, the team re-entered the reserve and prevented re-entry by the illegal operators.
March 8, 2025: Another attempt was made to arrest the miners, but they once again overpowered the enforcement team with their large numbers and heavy weaponry.
Public outrage was aroused after this invasion when pictures and videos of the illicit mining operations went viral on social media.
A combined military and RRU squad was sent out for a full-scale operation in retaliation.
In addition to seizing nine excavators and a bulldozer, the crew was able to apprehend four illegal miners.
The equipment that was seized is currently being brought to the Enchi District Assembly.
The Forestry Commission has also formally complained to the Enchi District Police Command, requesting additional inquiries and possible legal action.
Authorities have cautioned illicit miners against intruding on protected territories and reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s forest reserves.
Source: newsthemegh.com