The Nkawie District Forest Service Division led by Mr Chrisantus Nifasoyi has arrested 8 suspected illegal chainsaw operators in the Tano Offin Forest reserve in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality of the Ashanti region
The culprits were busted for illegal entry into the forest reserve.
The offenders namely; Attah Abeka 30, Prince Abeka 16, Shaibu Frank 17, Nkrumah Isaac 25, Dawuni Attah 20, Prince Opoku 17, Ali Issa 24 and Yaw Opoku 30 years respectively were apprehended on Monday.
Speaking to the media, Mr Nifasoyir, the Nkawie District Forest Service Division manager said, his outfit embarked on the operation through an intelligence system set up by Range Supervisors, Rapid Response Team and Forest Guards.
He declared that his team retrieved 5 chainsaw machines from the suspected culprits.
The offenders are in the Nkawie District Police custody for investigations and prosecution will follow if found guilty.
Meanwhile, Nifasoyir has advised the public to stop encroaching on the country’s forest reserves.
As per him, the Forestry Commission will deal drastically with anyone who would be caught for unlawful entry.
Source: Oyerepafmonline / Nana Akwasi Kyere