The Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Forest Service Division has confiscated and set ablaze 29 chamfines, ten pumping machines and three motorbikes in the upper Wassa Forest, near Ampontenkrom.
Mr. Baiden, who assumed office barely a week ago, set ablaze the confiscated equipment in the forest reserves, as part of his working visit to familiarise himself with issues on the ground and within his jurisdiction.
According to him, unfortunately they could not make any arrest because the illegal miners were given a tip off, as soon as they entered the community.
He disclosed that they also visited Sefwi Anhwiaso East reserve, near Aboabo, and burnt two heavy duty pumping machines, while two persons were arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution.
Mr. Baiden advised the public to desist from politicising issues concerning the environment and cautioned the Youth, Nananom and politicians to stay away from the forest and to enable them manage it for the benefit of the country as a whole.
