The Akuapem South Municipal Assembly has confirmed the arrest of two individuals, including the curator of the Aburi Botanical Gardens, in connection with the unauthorised felling of trees at the historic site.

In a press release issued Friday, January 16, the Assembly stated that the suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue into the incident.

According to the Assembly, management acted swiftly following reports of the illegal activity at the nationally revered botanical garden.

In collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, immediate investigations were launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the felling of the trees within the protected area.

“The Akuapem South Municipal Assembly wishes to inform the general public that individuals responsible for the unauthorised felling of trees at the Aburi Botanical Gardens have been arrested and are currently in custody,” the statement said.

The Assembly assured the public that investigations are ongoing and would be conducted thoroughly to ensure accountability.

“Those found culpable will face the full rigours of the law,” the statement added.

Protection of a national heritage

The Aburi Botanical Gardens, one of Ghana’s most treasured ecological and tourism landmarks, holds significant environmental, cultural and historical value.

The Assembly described the gardens as a vital national heritage asset that must be preserved for both present and future generations.

Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the site, the Assembly stressed that it would take all necessary steps to prevent a recurrence of such incidents and to ensure justice is served.

As part of the response, a technical team has been deployed to assess the extent of damage caused by the unauthorised tree felling.

The findings will inform a comprehensive restoration plan, which will be developed in consultation with the Department of Parks and Gardens in Accra.

Call for calm and public cooperation

The Municipal Assembly has urged members of the public to remain calm and allow due process to take its course, cautioning against any actions that could interfere with the ongoing investigations.

It has also appealed to individuals with credible information that could assist the inquiry to come forward and report to the Akuapem South Municipal Assembly or the Aburi Police Station.

"The Assembly urges the general public to remain calm and allow the investigative process to proceed without interference. Anyone with credible information that may assist the investigation is encouraged to contact the Assembly or the Aburi Police Station," the statement concluded.