The Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor says 212 suspects have been arrested for various forest and wildlife offences.

Addressing the press on Tuesday, Mr Jinapor stated that the suspects are currently standing trial for their offences.

According to him, the suspects were picked up by the Rapid Response Team of the Forestry Commission as part of efforts to secure the environment.

“Last year, 212 suspects were arrested by the Rapid Response Team of the Forestry Commission for various forests and wildlife offences, these suspects are standing trial at various courts across the country,” he said.

He noted that the Rapid Response Team also seized and decommissioned scores of equipment and forest products, including 44, 522 assaulted lumber, 54 vehicles and 17 excavators.

The integrity of Ghana’s forest reserves has been up for discussion following revelations of massive destruction by illegal and small-scale miners in the country.

But Mr Jinapor says the Forestry Commission has partnered with the security agencies to ramp up protection.

He added that the Lands Ministry also continued with its “aggressive afforestation and reforestation programme including the flagship Green Ghana Project.”

Meanwhile, a wildlife management bill is expected to be presented to Parliament for passage.