Asafo Taskforce Seizes Excavators in Tano Anwia Forest Reserve
On July 19, 2025, a joint Asafo security taskforce, comprising the Forestry Commission’s Rapid Response Unit (RRU) and 30 military personnel, raided the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Enchi Forest District, Western North Region. They seized 9–10 excavators along with a bulldozer, and arrested four individuals in Compartments 17 and 20 of the reserve. The confiscated machinery was transported to the Enchi District Assembly, and a formal complaint has been submitted to the police. Why This Matters Environmental urgency: Illegal mining—or “galamsey”—is devastating Ghana’s forest reserves, contaminating rivers and destroying ecosystems. This operation reflects intensified government action to safeguard natural resources. Policy enforcement: President Mahama previously directed security forces to confiscate rather than burn equipment used in illegal mining—a strategy implemented during this raid. Raid Timeline & Challenges March 4 & 6: Initial enforcement teams expelled 12 excavators but failed to make arrests […]