Eastern Region: Four Excavators Allegedly Burned by Forestry Officials in Atewa Forest Buffer
Community tensions rise as locals accuse officials of destroying mining equipment without due process, prompting investigations by the Regional Minister
- Four excavators allegedly involved in mining activities were set ablaze by Forestry Commission officials
- The Eastern Regional Minister has called for immediate investigations into the unsanctioned operation
- Local residents express outrage, citing mining as their primary source of livelihood.
Officials from the Kyebi Division of the Forestry Commission allegedly set fire to four excavators suspected of engaging in mining activities within the buffer zone of the Atewa Forest at Obuoho Fante, near Anum Apapamu in the Ayensuano District of the Eastern Region.
The incident occurred on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
Anum Apapamu North Assembly Member, Adu-Gyamfi Douglas, expressed the community’s frustration in an interview with Channel One News. “The youth are upset because small-scale mining is their only source of livelihood here. With no jobs available, halting these activities will only increase their struggles,” he lamented.
Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Awatey visited the community to restore calm and promised swift investigations into the matter. She clarified that the Regional Security Council, which recently met to devise strategies against illegal mining, had not authorized the burning of the excavators.
“We are committed to uncovering the truth behind this incident,” she assured the residents. “Please remain calm and leave the scene. Your safety is our priority, and we do not want any clashes to divert attention from resolving this issue.”
The incident has sparked tensions in the area, with calls for accountability and clearer measures in the fight against illegal mining.
