The Forestry Commission (FC) has addressed recent media reports that downplay the significant progress made in combating illegal mining within Ghana’s forest reserves.
In a statement signed by the Acting Chief Executive, Hugh C. A. Brown, the FC clarified that collaborative efforts with the Ministries of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR) and Defence have yielded notable successes in clearing armed gangs and illegal miners from forest reserves.
According to the FC, nine forest reserves had been classified as "no-go" zones due to the presence of armed groups that prevented Forest Officers from carrying out their duties.
However, in the past three weeks, the FC, with military support, has successfully reclaimed seven out of the nine reserves.
The operations have led to the arrest of 71 individuals involved in illegal mining activities in the Ashanti, Western North, and Western Regions.
Several items used in the illegal activities were also seized, including:
55 excavators
3 bulldozers
3 pick-up trucks
4 pump-action rifles
11 motorbikes
Other mining equipment
The arrested individuals have been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.
The FC emphasized that these achievements demonstrate the government's commitment to tackling illegal mining.
"These accomplishments, achieved within a short timeframe, reflect the significant effort and resources invested in this fight," the statement said.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the country’s forests and natural resources for future generations, pledging to maintain vigilance and respond swiftly to any emerging threats.
“The FC and MLNR are fully committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that this fight is won,” the statement concluded.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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