Tensions are high in the Obuoho-Fante community near Apapam in the Ayensuano District of the Eastern Region after four excavators at a small-scale mining site were set ablaze by a team alleged to be officials of the Forestry Commission of Ghana.
The incident occurred early Thursday when the Rapid Response Team of the Forestry Commission stormed the mining site and set the machines on fire, accusing the miner of trespassing into a forest reserve zone.
The action triggered agitation among residents, many of whom are miners.
Sensing danger, the forestry personnel fled the community.
Abubakar Adams, the owner of the mining site, claimed he possesses the necessary documentation to operate but could not immediately produce the documents for verification.
He also denied allegations of trespassing into a forest zone or river buffer area.
Adams has called for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the forestry officials.
Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, accompanied by a team of police personnel, visited the community and the scene of the incident to assess the situation.
She denied authorizing the burning of the excavators and assured residents that a full investigation would be conducted into the matter.
The Minister urged calm among the community members and advised miners in the area to strictly adhere to mining regulations, particularly avoiding mining near river bodies and forest reserves.
The incident has heightened tensions in the area, with residents calling for accountability and justice.
The Minister’s visit and assurances are expected to help de-escalate the situation as investigations into the controversial actions of the Forestry Commission team begin.
