What You Need to Know
Ghana’s Forestry Commission has arrested 31 individuals, including 28 Chinese nationals, for illegal mining in the Abambrama Reserve. The arrests highlight ongoing efforts to combat environmental degradation caused by illegal mining, which has severely impacted forest and water resources in the region.
Africa. Ghana’s Forestry Commission has arrested 31 individuals, including 28 Chinese nationals and 3 Ghanaians, inside the Abambrama Reserve in the Ashanti Region, following what was described as a coordinated attempt to mine under the guise of “land rehabilitation.”
Investigations revealed that the suspects had set up a camp in the forest, claiming to have obtained a permit for reclamation work, a tactic previously used in attempts at illegal mining.
Official data indicates that nearly half of the Abambrama Reserve has already suffered degradation, with warnings that continued violations accelerate deforestation and water pollution.
Authorities conducted a sweep along the Birim River in the Eastern Region, resulting in the arrest of 5 Chinese nationals while they were mining and washing mineral materials directly in the river.
The Forestry Commission confirmed that its field teams, deployed in areas such as Kwahu, Nkawie, Mankranso, and Dunkwa, are on high alert to protect reserves, emphasizing the need for the prosecution of those arrested to deter others.
Illegal mining is locally known as “Galamsey” and has caused extensive damage to forests and rivers, prompting successive governments to deploy joint forces of the military, police, and civil agencies to safeguard natural resources.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources announced in October 2025 that approximately 1,500 individuals have been arrested since the beginning of the year for illegal mining activities, including around 60 Chinese nationals in various regions of the country.
The recent arrests reflect the government’s escalation of efforts to combat environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, particularly in protected areas, while the Forestry Commission calls for the full imposition of penalties on the accused to prevent the recurrence of such violations.
Illegal mining, locally known as ‘Galamsey’, has been a persistent issue in Ghana, causing significant environmental damage. The government has implemented various measures, including deploying military and police forces to protect natural resources from illegal activities. Recent statistics indicate that thousands have been arrested for illegal mining, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing this pressing environmental challenge.
