A coalition of civil society organisations, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens has strongly condemned the arrest of a Forestry Commission officer who was enforcing anti-illegal mining laws in the Atewa Forest.

In a statement issued on 7th March 2025, the group described the incident as an abuse of power that undermines efforts to combat illegal mining.

According to the statement, the officer, a member of the Rapid Response Task Force, was manhandled and detained while attempting to stop illegal mining around the Obuoho area.

“This wrongful arrest sends a dangerous message that those protecting Ghana’s forests and water bodies are the ones being targeted, while illegal miners operate with impunity,” the group stated. They accused the Kyebi Police of failing to tackle illegal mining in their jurisdiction but acting swiftly against a public officer who was fulfilling his duty.

The coalition further called for urgent leadership changes within the Eastern Region’s security apparatus, citing a failure to enforce laws against illegal mining. They specifically demanded the removal of Eastern-South Police Commander DCOP George Boadi Bossman and Divisional Police Commander ACP Reynolds Sam for their inability to curb illegal mining activities in the region.

“Communities and civil society organisations have made several attempts to stop the pollution of River Densu, River Birim, and other water bodies, yet illegal miners continue to destroy these resources under the watch of law enforcement,” the group said.

They insisted that without strong leadership, illegal mining will continue to threaten livelihoods, water security, and environmental sustainability in the region.

“We need dedicated officers who will prioritise enforcement of mining laws and bring an end to the rising lawlessness in the Akyem Abuakwa and Atewa areas,” the statement said.