The Enchi Forest Division Manager, Joe Appiah Frimpong, has raised concerns over the growing threat of illegal mining to forest reserves in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region.
Speaking to Adom News, Mr. Frimpong lamented the severe environmental degradation caused by illegal miners, warning that their activities are endangering the delicate ecosystem of protected forest areas.
“Out of the eight forest reserves in the municipality, two—Tano Anhwia and Tano Nimiri—have been severely affected by illegal mining,” he revealed.
As part of efforts to curb the destruction, authorities have confiscated 28 excavators and one dozer from these reserves.
Despite the ongoing challenges, Mr. Frimpong assured that the Forestry Commission remains committed to protecting and preserving the forest reserves.
He called for a collaborative approach involving law enforcement agencies and local authorities to combat illegal mining and safeguard the environment.
