Security services have arrested 21 individuals, including 11 Chinese nationals and 10 Ghanaians, for illegal mining activities in the Yakombo Forest Reserve in the Savannah Region.
The suspects were apprehended on December 2, 2025, in Compartments 50 and 51 of the reserve, near Tuntumba in the Bole-Bamboi District. The Yakombo Forest Reserve, covering approximately 1,210 square kilometers in the Buipe Forest District, is Ghana’s largest forest reserve and supports diverse plant and animal life.
Authorities seized significant equipment during the operation, including one Toyota Hilux, two Great Wall pick-up vehicles, three Howo tipper trucks, and one Man Diesel low-bed truck carrying an excavator.
Residents of the Savannah Region have welcomed the arrests, praising President Mahama for responding swiftly to concerns raised by local communities. Citizens also commended the Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi Constituency for advocating environmental protection and sustainable development in the area.
The Forestry Commission of Ghana, along with its Forestry Service Division, Rapid Response Team, and Wildlife Division, received praise for their efforts in protecting the nation’s forests and natural resources.
The government’s intervention aims to safeguard the reserve from further destruction and preserve it for future generations.
Story filled by: Cajetan Don-ninge
(Journalist, Spear FM 91.9MHz-Damongo)
Email: adonninge@gmail.com
Phone: 0544899090
