Joint operation halts illegal mining in Atewa Forest

A renewed clampdown on illegal mining activities in the Atewa Forest Reserve in the Eastern Region has led to the arrest of one suspect and the destruction of several illegal mining installations, as state authorities and environmental groups intensify efforts to protect the country’s critical ecological zones.

The operation was carried out by the Forestry Commission, in collaboration with environmental advocacy organisations, A Rocha Ghana and the Coalition Against Galamsey, following renewed concerns over encroachment into the forest by illegal miners, popularly known as Galamseyers.

The joint enforcement operation, conducted in the Atiwa Forest District, at Kyebi, resulted in the arrest of a 20-year-old suspect, Kojo Davan, a native of Sawla in the Savannah Region. He is currently in custody, assisting with investigations and is expected to face prosecution.

According to the Forestry Commission, the exercise involved eight personnel from its Kyebi District Office, who moved into affected areas to dismantle illegal mining operations.

In the course of the operation, ten water pumping machines used by the illegal miners were destroyed, while about 30 makeshift structures serving as operational bases were also demolished and burnt.

The Commission described the exercise as part of sustained enforcement measures aimed at curbing the increasing impunity of illegal miners who continue to invade protected forest reserves despite repeated warnings.

“The Commission will sustain these operations to ensure that illegal mining activities are completely driven out of the forest,” a source indicated.

The Atewa Forest Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot and a major water catchment area, has come under persistent threat from illegal mining activities, drawing strong advocacy from groups such as A Rocha Ghana and the Coalition Against Galamsey.

Environmental stakeholders warn that continued degradation of the forest could have serious implications for water security, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience in the country.

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