Ten individuals have been apprehended for participating in illegal mining activities within the protected Boin Forest Reserve, located in the Aowin Municipality of Ghana’s Western North Region.
This operation was executed through a collaborative effort between the Enchi Forest Division and military personnel assigned to protect the nation’s natural resources.
The suspects were detained in an area of the forest near the border with Ivory Coast, which has become increasingly attractive to illegal miners due to its abundant mineral resources and challenging terrain.
Joe Appiah Frimpong, the Enchi Forest Division Manager, confirmed the arrests and indicated that the suspects have been transferred to the police in Enchi for further investigation and legal action.
He highlighted that these arrests are part of a broader, ongoing initiative to combat unauthorized mining activities that are detrimental to Ghana’s forest reserves.
Illegal mining represents a serious threat to the country’s forests, water sources, and agricultural lands, with the Boin Forest Reserve being particularly susceptible in recent years.
Mr. Frimpong issued a strong warning to individuals and groups engaged in such activities, asserting that the Enchi Forest Division, in partnership with security agencies, will persist in its efforts to maintain the integrity of Ghana’s forested areas.
