Forestry Commission of Ghana has arrested a group of 11 Chinese and 10 Ghanaian nationals for their involvement in unauthorized mining operations within the Yakombo Forest Reserve in the Savannah Region.
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Forestry Commission, Hon. Elikem Kotoko revealed that the intelligence-led anti-galamsey operation represents the latest effort by the commission to safeguard the country’s precious natural resources.
The arrests, carried out by the commission, occurred in Compartments 50 and 51 of the reserve, which is situated near the town of Tuntumba in the Bole-Bamboi District.
The Forestry Commission, working in close collaboration with local authorities, was able to apprehend the suspected illegal miners and seize a significant amount of equipment, including vehicles, trucks, and an excavator, that were being used in the unlawful activities.
“The 10 Ghanaians also gave their names as: Alhassan Yakubu; Daniel Mba, 33; Pious Kwabena, 20; Emmanuel Amankra, 40; Seidu Suleman, 44; Sampson Akawuni, 22; Thadeus Gideon, 27; Mohammed Salim, 21; Mohammed Kanamu, 25; and Saaka Yakubu, 22.”
Hon. Elikem Kotoko
The Forestry Commission Deputy CEO further detailed that the “names of the 11 Chinese are: Tang Shao Qi, 28; He Peng, 40; Zhou Qin Sar, 25; Wu Xu, 39; He Chuang Ye, 45; Cheng Lin 40; Long Xi, 32; Yang Gesheng, 51; Zhang Hongzhaojie, 34; Zhou Peng, 39 and Wu Yujie, 24”.
Protecting Ghana’s Invaluable Forests
The Yakombo Forest Reserve, established in 1974, is the largest in the country, covering an area of approximately 1,210 square kilometers. As a vital national asset, the reserve’s protection is of paramount importance to the Forestry Commission, which has been at the forefront of the ongoing battle against illegal mining, or “galamsey,” activities that threaten the country’s natural resources.
The Forestry Commission, a government agency responsible for the management and conservation of Ghana’s forest resources, has been increasingly active in addressing the challenges posed by illegal mining.
Through intelligence-gathering, strategic operations, and robust enforcement measures, the commission has sought to curb the devastating impact of galamsey on the country’s delicate ecosystems.
Advancing the Fight Against Galamsey
The recent arrests in the Yakombo Forest Reserve represent a significant milestone in the Forestry Commission’s efforts to combat the galamsey scourge.
By targeting both Ghanaian and foreign nationals involved in these unlawful activities, the commission is sending a clear message that it will not tolerate any violations of the laws and regulations governing the protection of Ghana’s natural resources.
The seizure of the vehicles, trucks, and excavator used in the illegal mining operations further demonstrates the commission’s commitment to dismantling the infrastructure that enables galamsey activities.
By depositing the seized equipment at the Mole National Park, which is under the management of the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission, the agency is ensuring that these assets are not easily reclaimed or redeployed for future illegal activities.
Strengthening Collaboration and Enforcement
The Forestry Commission’s collaboration with the Damongo Regional Police in this operation underscores the importance of interdepartmental cooperation in addressing the complex challenges posed by illegal mining.
By working closely with law enforcement agencies, the commission can ensure that the arrested individuals are properly investigated and prosecuted, serving as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to engage in similar unlawful activities.
“All those arrested have been handed over to the Damongo Regional Police for investigations and prosecution, while the seized equipment have been deposited at the Mole National Park which is under the management of the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission.“
Hon. Elikem Kotoko
While the Forestry Commission continues its relentless battle against galamsey, this latest operation in the Yakombo Forest Reserve sends a clear message to both Ghanaian and foreign nationals that the government is determined to protect the country’s natural resources.
By reinforcing its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable resource management, the commission is paving the way for a future where Ghana’s forests and ecosystems can thrive and contribute to the nation’s long-term prosperity.
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