The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has condemned what it describes as a “shameful and unlawful” raid by National Security operatives on three Forestry Commission district offices in the Ashanti Region.

According to eyewitness accounts, over 15 armed agents stormed the Bekwai, Nkawie, and Offinso offices, forcibly shutting them down, damaging property, and intimidating staff.

The affected personnel were reportedly involved in anti-illegal mining operations across seven forest reserves.

The Coalition called the incident a “grave breach of the rule of law,” and urged President John Mahama and key government officials to take immediate steps to investigate and prosecute all involved.

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The group also called for the identification and prosecution of individuals, including political figures, behind the operation; the arrest and dismissal of the implicated operatives, especially those caught on video; the interdiction of the Ashanti Regional National Security Coordinator and the establishment of an independent probe.

GCAG further criticised political interference in the Forestry Commission and warned that failure to act would erode public confidence.

“We urge government to demonstrate its commitment to good governance, institutional integrity, and environmental protection,” the statement read.