Despite intensified anti-galamsey operations, illegal mining activities continue to devastate the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Western North Region of Ghana. Recent raids by joint task forces comprising the Forestry Commission and the military have led to the seizure of numerous excavators and bulldozers, as well as the arrest of several individuals involved in illegal mining. However, these efforts have been met with resistance from armed miners, hindering the full restoration of the protected forest area.
Key Developments
- March 2025 Raids: On March 9, 2025, a joint operation resulted in the seizure of 10 excavators and a bulldozer, along with the arrest of four individuals in Compartments 17 and 20 of the reserve. Earlier, on March 4, 12 excavators were removed from the forest, but no arrests were made due to armed resistance from the miners.
- Arrests and Equipment Seizures: On March 11, 2025, 12 illegal miners, including three Chinese nationals, were arrested, and an excavator along with two gold detector machines were seized in Compartments 17 and 63.
- Environmental Impact: Drone footage has revealed extensive degradation of the forest reserve, with over 50 acres destroyed by illegal mining activities.
Challenges and Outlook
The persistent illegal mining activities in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve underscore the challenges faced by authorities in enforcing environmental protection laws. The involvement of armed miners and the presence of foreign nationals complicate enforcement efforts. Authorities have pledged to intensify operations and collaborate with local communities to safeguard the forest reserve.
The continued degradation of the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve highlights the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained efforts to combat illegal mining and preserve Ghana’s natural resources.
In a fresh raid on Tuesday, the concessionaire, in collaboration with military forces, made additional arrests and seized four more excavators in the reserve. This recent operation underscores the persistent challenges faced by authorities in safeguarding the forest, despite previous successful raids and equipment seizures. While the military-led operations and involvement of Clean Jobs show determination to protect the reserve, the continued presence of illegal miners and their resistance to law enforcement.
