The Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown, has described the fight against illegal mining, as a scary and life-threatening mission for officers protecting Ghana’s forest reserves.
He called for stronger government and security support to safeguard the country’s natural resources.
Speaking at the 28th Annual General Meeting of the Ghana Institute of Foresters in Kumasi, on Friday, November 7,2025, Dr. Brown revealed that officers of the Forestry Commission face constant threats and intimidation from illegal miners while carrying out their duties.
The fight against galamsey is not only dangerous but also life-threatening. Many of our officers risk their lives daily to protect the forest, and they need stronger backing from the government and security services.
The meeting, which brought together forestry professionals from across the country, centered on sustainable forest management and strategies to combat illegal mining activities destroying forest reserves and water bodies.
He disclosed that joint Forestry Commission/military operations to flush out illegal miners from forest reserves since March,2025, has resulted in 190 excavators seized, 16 vehicles seized, 345 suspects arrested and being prosecuted ,4 bulldozers seized.
Others include 217 pumping machines seized, 69 motorbikes seized 7 tricycles seized, 15 gold detector machines seized and 10 heavy duty generators seized.
He said they have put in place strategies to address illegal mining in forest reserves which include strengthen law enforcement and regulatory regime, stakeholder engagement, sensitisation and education.
Others include provision of alternative livelihoods, restoration of mined out sites and resource mobilization.
He commended their staff members for good work done over the years to protect forest reserves.
“To all the hardworking and dedicated staff of the Forestry Commission who wake up daily to protect our forest and wildlife reserves from all forms of encroachment and illegal activities, especially Galamsey even at the peril of their lives. I salute you.
You are unsung heroes in this tragedy. Your courage in the face of danger and your selfless service hardly receive the public recognition and praise you deserve. I salute you,” he said.
The President of the Ghana Institute of Foresters, Dr. Abukari N. Attah, expressed disappointment over what he described as the government’s weak commitment in the fight against illegal mining.
The political will to deal decisively with galamsey is missing. Until the government shows stronger commitment, the destruction of our forests will continue.
The Ghana Institute of Foresters is urging the government to empower forestry officers and collaborate effectively with stakeholders to end the menace once and for all.
The ongoing destruction of Ghana’s forest reserves continues to threaten biodiversity, water bodies, and climate resilience, as experts call for urgent and decisive action against illegal mining.
