The Forestry Commission on Monday, January 30 deployed officers to the Atewa Forest following reports of illegal mining in the forest reserve.
Indeed, it was found out that there was a mining operation but officials say it was outside the forest reserve.
The officials admitted, however, that the operation affected a portion of the forest reserve.
“No person was found at this portion of the Forest Reserve,” the Commission said in a press release issued by the Chief Executive, John Allotey.
But it indicated that some equipment including an excavator were found.
“The Commission has demobilised all equipment found in the forest reserve. The Commission is working with Operation Halt II to ensure no illegal mining activity takes place in the forest reserve.”
It assured that the necessary steps will be taken to reclaim the portion of the forest reserve which was affected by the illegal mining.
The incident is said to have been reported to the Kyebi District Police Command for the perpetrators to be arrested and the necessary action taken against them.
“The Commission assures the general public of its continuous commitment to work with all stakeholders to protect all forest reserves in the country.”
