The Aowin Division of the Forestry Commission has intensified its enforcement against illegal mining, culminating in the arrest of thirteen (13) Ghanaians in a targeted operation within the Boin Tano Forest Reserve.
The operation, executed by combined task forces including a Rapid Response Team in the early hours of Monday, January 19, 2026, targeted the Jema Asemkrom area following specific intelligence.
District Manager Joe Appiah Frimpong reported the discovery and destruction of four active mining camps, complete with changfang machines and tools, which were subsequently incinerated.
Investigations indicate the suspects, whose ages range from 19 to 29, are responsible for the degradation of an estimated 0.4 to 0.5 hectares of vital forest land.
All thirteen have been transferred to the Aowin Divisional Police Command for processing and have already been arraigned.
Mr. Frimpong issued a stern warning to the public, affirming the Commission’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding forest reserves and water bodies.
He emphasized that sustained operations reflect the government’s renewed mandate to eradicate illegal mining.
