Journalist Erasmus Asare Donkor has revealed on his social media platform that a Rapid Response Team of the Forestry Commission undertook an intelligence-led operation in the Upper Wassaw Forest Reserve on May 17, 2025, to arrest illegal miners. The team seized an excavator and arrested two suspects, Kwabena Anyimade and Kweku Asuama Atobrah, who claimed ownership of the excavator and the site.
However, the team’s efforts were allegedly hindered by the District Police Commander for Diaso, Supt Bernard Morgan, and one Alhassan of the FPU, who demanded the release of the suspects. The Police Commander claimed that the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) had instructed them to release the suspects. The Forest Officers refused to yield to their demands, and the suspects were eventually handed over to the Diaso Police for further investigation and prosecution.
The seized excavator was later found to have been taken away to an unknown destination by unknown people. Investigations are ongoing to locate the missing excavator. The suspects have been granted bail. The incident has raised concerns about alleged police interference in the enforcement of environmental laws.
Sankofaonline
