The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, says the spate of devastation of forest reserves by illegal miners is comparable to 7,500 football pitches.

According to him, over 44 forest reserves, which amount to thirty hectares, have been destroyed.

During a tour of the Offin Shelter Belt at Anwiafutu in the Ashanti region to witness the havoc on the forest, he said steps are being taken to secure the green field.

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, together with the Ashanti regional minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene and the regional Security Council toured the Offin Shelter Belt at Anwiafutu in the Atwima Mponua District.

Addressing the media at the site, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah described the devastation of forest reserves by the illegal miners as comparable to 7,500 football pitches.

He emphasized that the fight against galamsey is not going to be a nine-day wonder, as the perpetrators are going to face the law.

"This goes to the police officers, this government is strongly behind you to do your job and make sure that you bring perpetrators who are killing us to book without fear nor favor," he tasked the police.

The Minister said the journey of reclaiming destroyed lands has already started.

Mr. Kofi Buah called for public support in the fight against galamsey.