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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 illicit mining in the forest reserve.
Following a tip on illicit mining, a team from the FC’s Forest Services Division (FSD) and the RRU attacked the reserve. Twelve excavators were successfully driven away by the team, but they were outnumbered by the highly armed miners and were unable to make any arrests.
The team re-entered the reserve and stopped the illegal operators from re-entering after receiving information that the miners intended to return.
The miners on March 8 once again overcame the enforcement squad with their enormous numbers and heavy weapons, thwarting another effort to arrest them.
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 further investigation 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: Ghanatodayonline.com
