In a controversial ruling, the Enchi District Court has directed the Forestry Commission to return two excavators and other mining equipment to individuals arrested for illegal mining within the Boin River Forest Reserve.
The decision, issued on March 28, 2025, has sparked significant concerns about the protection of Ghana’s forest reserves, particularly given the country’s ongoing battle against illegal mining, or galamsey, which has led to widespread environmental degradation.
The case, involving several accused individuals including Wisdom Amuzu, Francis Adongo, Abuu Anorwin, and others, stemmed from an incident on March 23, 2025, when the Forestry Commission, in collaboration with the Enchi District Police, apprehended the accused for engaging in illegal mining activities within the protected Boin River Forest Reserve in the Western North Region.
The arrest led to the confiscation of two Lingong excavators and other mining equipment.
However, in a surprising turn of events, the court, presided over by Magistrate Lawrence Buenor Buer, granted a ruling in favour of the accused, instructing the Forestry Commission to allow the evacuation and relocation of the excavators and mining equipment from the forest reserve.
The court’s order stated that the accused individuals, led by Wisdom Amuzu, would be allowed to move the excavators to a location of their choice outside the forest reserve.
The order further stipulated that the individuals would bear the full cost of the evacuation process, which must be completed within three days.
Moreover, the Enchi District Police Command was directed to supervise the entire operation.
The decision has raised eyebrows, particularly given the context of Ghana’s ongoing fight against illegal mining and the destruction of the country’s natural resources.
Critics argue that the court’s ruling undermines efforts to protect the country’s forests, especially in a jurisdiction known for rampant illegal mining activities.
The Boin River Forest Reserve, like many other areas in Ghana, has been severely impacted by illegal mining, with the destruction of forest cover and pollution of water bodies.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
