A multi-unit Rapid Response Team has apprehended 24 suspects for illegal mining operations within the Atewa Range Forest Reserve.
The suspects, ranging in age from 14 to 42, are currently in police custody and scheduled for prosecution at the Kyebi District Court.
During the arrest, officials dismantled and incinerated makeshift camps and pumping equipment used by the miners.
While several individuals managed to evade capture, the operation successfully disrupted a growing threat to the 235.5-square-kilometre reserve.
According to the Forestry Commission, illegal activities have already decimated four hectares of the forest, an area equivalent to four football pitches, sparking urgent concerns over further environmental degradation.
