A raid on illegal mining activities in the Atewa Range Forest Reserve in Ghana’s Eastern Region has resulted in the burning of four excavators.
The operation, reportedly carried out by personnel of the Forestry Commission, was revealed by Erastus Asare Donkor, a known advocate against illegal mining. He shared the news on social media, stating:
“GALAMSEY UPDATE: Successful RAID carried out on illegal miners in Atewa Range Forest Reserve in the Eastern Region this dawn. Four excavators burnt!!”
The decision to burn the excavators has sparked reactions, as the current government had previously criticized the practice while in opposition. A social media user questioned the move, saying:
“Oh, excavators could be burnt after all? Wasn’t it called the most stupid thing for a sitting government to do? Couldn’t they be used for District Assembly projects or other purposes?”
Since assuming office, the new administration has been criticized for not implementing strong measures against illegal mining. There have also been calls for the government to outline its strategy to combat mining in forest reserves and water bodies.
Recently, reports emerged that individuals linked to the current government were engaged in mining activities in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve, raising further concerns about the fight against illegal mining.