Forestry Commission Finds Galamsey Site Affecting Atewa Forest

The Forestry Commission has found an illegal mining site which has affected a portion of the Atewa Forest Reserve in the Eastern Region.

According to the Commission, the mining site is located outside the forest reserve, however, its activities have affected less than a hectare of the reserve.

The discovery followed the Commission’s efforts to verify reports of illegal mining activities in the forest reserve.

“Following reports of alleged illegal mining activities in the Atewa Forest Reserve, in the Eastern Region, today, 30th January 2023, the Forestry Commission immediately deployed officials to comb the Forest to ascertain the veracity or otherwise of the report.

“After thoroughly combing the Forest, officials identified a mining operation outside the Forest Reserve, which has affected a portion of the Forest Reserve, measuring approximately zero point six hectares (0.6ha)”, it said in a statement.

The Commission said no one was found at the site upon its visit, however, there were some mining equipment including an excavator which have since been decommissioned.

It said the incident has been reported to the Kyebi District Police Station.

Meanwhile, it said steps are being taken to reclaim the portions of the forest which has been destroyed.

Source: opemsuo.com/Hajara Fuseini