Forestry Commission officers arrested 12 people on September 4, 2026. They were suspected of illegal mining inside the Atewa Range Forest Reserve. The operation took place at dawn.
The arrests happened in Compartments 61 and 62 of the reserve. This area is near the Sagyimase community. The Forestry Commission's Rapid Response Unit carried out the operation.
Mining equipment used by the suspects was seized by the officers. The Forestry Commission is working to stop illegal mining activities.
Illegal mining, often called galamsey, harms Ghana's forests and water sources. The Atewa Forest is a vital ecosystem.
Authorities are investigating the arrested individuals. Further legal action will follow based on the findings.
The Forestry Commission continues its efforts to protect forest reserves across the country.