Rapid response team arrests 24 suspects in Atewa Forest Reserve over illegal mining activities

A rapid response team drawn from six units across the country has arrested 24 suspects for engaging in illegal mining activities in the Atewa Range Forest Reserve.

The suspects, aged between 14 and 42, have been handed over to the police and are expected to face prosecution at the Kyebi District Court.

During the operation, the team dismantled and burned makeshift structures constructed with polythene sheets, along with pumping machines used for the illegal activities.

Several other suspects reportedly fled the scene.

The Atewa Forest Reserve, which spans approximately 235.5 square kilometres, has come under increasing pressure from illegal mining in recent years, leading to significant environmental degradation.

According to the Forestry Commission’s latest findings, an estimated four hectares of the reserve roughly the size of four football fields have already been affected.