Three individuals suspected of engaging in illegal mining within the Tano-Boin Forest Reserve have been apprehended and subsequently remanded. According to the Jema Anti-Galamsey Advocacy (JAGA) Watch Committee, the suspects were discovered operating near the Tano River on Friday, October 2, 2026, with a water-pumping machine and a changfang mining raft. One suspect reportedly attempted to evade capture by swimming across the river but was pursued and apprehended by committee members. The arrested individuals were handed over to the Jema Police Station and later transferred to the Enchi District Police Command. Due to the absence of substantive judicial officers at the Enchi Magistrate and Circuit Courts, the suspects were presented before the Assankragwa Magistrate Court, where they were remanded for one week. JAGA commended the police for bringing the suspects to court and informed the Forestry Commission, which arranged transportation and covered operational expenses. JAGA highlighted the need for continued enforcement against illegal mining and greater collaboration between community groups and state institutions, emphasizing the environmental implications.
Update (12:50 GMT): Citi Newsroom also reported on this story under the headline "Three arrested for alleged illegal mining in Tano-Boin Forest Reserve". Read the Citi Newsroom report.