BTA2023 The Rapid Response and District Monitoring Teams of the Forestry Commission have arrested 12 illegal miners in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve, located in the Enchi Forest District of the Western North Region.
The operation, which took place on March 11, 2025, led to the arrest of nine Ghanaians and three Chinese nationals, along with the seizure of:
- 1 excavator
- 2 gold detector machines
Details of the Arrest
According to a statement from the Public Affairs Unit of the Forestry Commission:
- The Chinese suspects were using an excavator for illegal mining in Compartment 17.
- The Ghanaian suspects were engaging in “dig and wash” operations in Compartment 63.
Identities of the Suspects
Chinese Nationals:
- Cheng Yung (48)
- Yangedon (40)
- Lengtar (45)
Ghanaian Nationals:
- Yaw Timothy (20)
- Bonye George (20)
- Joseph Ayoo (23)
- Tanzon Mark (20)
- Kofi Salifu (23)
- Legosie Francis (20)
- Justin Dakora (20)
- Bismark Lebesue (23)
- Boye Bedua (26)
The Enchi District Police Command is conducting further investigations and preparing the suspects for prosecution.
Forestry Commission’s Commitment
Mr. Joseph Appiah Frimpong, the District Manager, emphasized the Commission’s zero-tolerance policy toward illegal mining and logging.
“The Forestry Commission will not relent in its efforts in the fight against illegal mining and logging. Operators should be mindful of their actions as they face imprisonment, fines, or both if found guilty,” he warned.
Recent Operations in Tano Anwia Forest Reserve
The Tano Anwia Forest Reserve has been a target for illegal mining. On March 9, 2025, the Forestry Commission and 30 military personnel seized:
- 8 excavators
- 1 bulldozer
- 1 pump-action rifle
Efforts are currently underway to move the seized excavator from the reserve to the Enchi Municipal Assembly premises for safekeeping.
