The Forestry Commission in Ghana has made a major breakthrough in its fight against illegal mining with the arrest of 21 individuals, including 11 Chinese nationals, during a recent intelligence-led operation inside the Yakombo Forest Reserve in the Savannah Region. The operation took place on 2 December and was carried out by a combined force of 51 personnel drawn from the Buipe and Bole forest districts, supported by three Rapid Response teams. The targeted areas, Compartments 50 and 51, are located near Tuntumba in the Bole-Bamboi District, regions that have been hotspots for illicit mining activities.
The involvement of foreign nationals, specifically the 11 Chinese suspects named in the operation, points to the extent of international participation in illegal mining ventures within Ghana’s forest reserves. The suspects include individuals such as Tang Shao Qi, 28, He Peng, 40, and Zhou Qin Sar, 25, among others. They were arrested alongside 10 Ghanaian nationals, including Daniel Mba, 33; Pious Kwabena, 20; and Emmanuel Amankra, 40. This collaboration between local and foreign actors illustrates the complexity of illegal mining networks and the challenges faced in dismantling them.
During the crackdown, authorities seized an array of vehicles and heavy equipment used by the illegal miners. Confiscated items included a Toyota Hilux, two Great Wall pickups, three Howo tipper trucks, and a Man Diesel low-bed truck that was transporting an excavator. These assets are not only expensive but also essential for large-scale mining operations, so their seizure significantly hampers the ability of the criminals to continue their activities. The Forestry Commission has moved this equipment to Mole National Park under the Wildlife Division for safe keeping and to prevent further misuse.
The Yakombo Forest Reserve, established in 1974, is Ghana’s largest forest reserve, covering approximately 1,210 square kilometers. Its vast size and rich natural resources make it a frequent target for illegal mining, which causes severe environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution. These destructive activities threaten biodiversity, disrupt ecosystems, and endanger local communities that depend on the forest for their livelihoods. The recent operation is a strong step towards reclaiming and protecting this vital ecological zone.
Following their arrest, the 21 suspects have been handed over to the Damongo Regional Police for further investigation and prosecution. This collaborative approach between the Forestry Commission and law enforcement agencies is crucial to ensuring that violators are held accountable and that illegal mining activities are curtailed long-term. The operation sends a clear message that Ghana is committed to protecting its natural heritage and will continue intensifying efforts to combat illegal exploitation of its forest reserves.
Source: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku