The Nkroful District Court has sentenced a 48-year-old rubber tapper to three years in prison for illegal hunting activities in the Ankasa Conservation Area.
Ofori Annor was convicted on three counts after being found guilty of entering a wildlife protected area without authorisation, possessing a firearm and ammunition within the reserve, and illegally hunting wild animals.
The offences contravene provisions of the Wildlife Resources Management Act, 2023, which outlaws unlawful access, carrying weapons, and hunting in designated conservation zones.
Court records show that Annor was arrested by patrol rangers during a routine anti-poaching operation inside the Ankasa Reserve. Officers retrieved a shotgun, five live cartridges, and a cutlass from him at the time of his arrest.
Further checks within the forest confirmed that he had killed two Maxwell’s duikers and four giant rats. The animals were reportedly found in his possession when he was apprehended.
Authorities say patrols in and around conservation zones will be strengthened as part of ongoing efforts to combat poaching and safeguard Ghana’s biodiversity for future generations.
