The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has directed a full-scale investigation into the reported invasion of the Jimira Forest Reserve near Bontireso by illegal miners.
This follows a wave of media reports indicating attempts by suspected illegal mining syndicates, popularly known as “galamsey” operators, to seize parts of the protected forest for unauthorized mining operations.
A specialized police team led by DSP Karim Mahama and ASP Alhaji Bawah Abdul Jalil was dispatched to the area in response to the IGP’s directive.
On their way to the reserve, the team was informed that officials from the Forestry Commission, in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Police Command, had already conducted a preliminary operation.
That operation led to the seizure of one excavator, while the illegal miners reportedly fled the scene.
Despite this, the special team continued to the forest site for an independent assessment. Upon arrival, the officers confirmed that the illegal miners had abandoned the area prior to their approach.
However, two SHANTUI excavators were found at the site, both of which were mechanically incapacitated and left behind.
Evidence of illegal mining activities was also observed within the forest reserve.
While en route to the site, the police encountered a deliberate obstruction—another SHANTUI excavator abandoned in the middle of the main access road.
Investigations suggest that the miners, aware of the approaching special Anti-Galamsey Operations team, had attempted to escape with the machine but left it to block the path, likely as a diversionary tactic.
The obstruction was swiftly cleared, and the excavator was recovered and transported to the Manso Adubia Police Station. It has since been impounded, pending further directives.
Authorities have pledged to intensify surveillance in forest reserves across the country, as part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities that threaten Ghana’s environment and water bodies.
