Forestry Commission arrests 24 suspected illegal miners in dawn raid on Atewa range

The Forestry Commission’s Rapid Response Team (RRT) has arrested 24 suspected illegal miners during an early morning operation at the Atewa Range Forest Reserve in the Eastern Region.

The raid took place at Sagyimase, a community near the reserve, as part of intensified efforts to combat galamsey in protected areas.

Approximately 30 officers drawn from various Rapid Response teams across the country participated in the coordinated exercise, targeting miners operating illegally inside the forest reserve.

During the operation, 24 suspects were apprehended while others managed to flee into nearby communities as security personnel advanced on the site.

Officers also destroyed equipment linked to illegal mining, including water pumping machines and makeshift structures erected within the forest.

Suspects to Face Prosecution

The arrested individuals are currently being processed at the Kyebi District Office and will be handed over to the Ghana Police Service for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Key Ecological Zone Under Threat

The Atewa Range Forest Reserve is a critical ecological area that serves as a major water source for numerous communities, making its protection a national environmental priority.

Environmental advocates have repeatedly warned that illegal mining in the reserve could lead to severe ecological damage, including water pollution and biodiversity loss.

Authorities have indicated that similar operations will continue as part of a sustained national campaign against galamsey.

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