The Forestry Commission has arrested 12 suspected illegal miners and impounded three excavators during an operation at the South Formang Su Forest Reserve in the Ashanti Region.
The operation, conducted on September 13, 2026, also led to the seizure of six water-pumping machines and the destruction of six Chanfang machines. The suspects were handed over to the Juaso Police for further investigation.
Personnel from the Commission’s Ashanti Regional and Juaso District offices mobilised the Rapid Response Team after detecting illegal mining activities in the reserve.
Juaso District Forestry Manager, Isaac Boamah Amanquah, said the miners were operating heavy-duty equipment, posing security risks to forestry personnel.
He added that the excavators were transported to the Commission’s Range Quarters at Asankare.
“Their activities are a threat to our forestry staff. Because when they dig the holes, they don’t cover them, and it makes patrolling very difficult for us, and the area destroyed is estimated to be two hectares,” he said.
The Commission noted that illegal miners had previously invaded the reserve, returning after a similar operation last year by reopening an old access road to transport equipment into the protected area.
Mr Amanquah warned against further incursions, stressing that the Commission would continue its zero-tolerance approach to illegal mining.
“To me all those who have intentions to enter the reserve to carry out illegal mining operations, I want them to know that the Juaso Forest District, our eyes are on them 24/7. And anybody who will be caught will face the full rigorous law,” he said.
The Commission has intensified patrols and monitoring to prevent further illegal mining and protect the reserve.
