A worker from a private reforestation firm has been seriously injured following an alleged shooting by illegal chainsaw operators in the Abesewa Forest, located within the Ahafo Ano South East district of the Ashanti region on Saturday, July 25, 2026.
The person was part of a team from Next Door Farms—a company contracted by the Forestry Commission to plant trees in the reserve—who entered the forest to stop illegal loggers from destroying newly planted trees.
According to sources, the illegal operators opened fire on the team as soon as they approached the site.
The wounded worker was rushed to the Tepa Government Hospital, where he is currently receiving medical treatment for severe gunshot injuries.
Following the confrontation, security personnel reportedly arrested two suspects linked to the illegal logging group.
Both individuals are currently held in custody at the Tepa Divisional Police Station as preliminary investigations continue.
Company executives, Moses Oppong and Nana Gyamfi confirmed the incident and called for swift justice as law enforcement authorities work to apprehend remaining members of the illegal syndicate.
Forestry Commission trains more field staff to combat illegal chainsaw activities
By Benjamin Aidoo
