A joint operation by the Rapid Response Unit (RRU) of the Forestry Commission (FC) and the Ghana Armed Forces has led to the seizure of 10 excavators, a bulldozer, and the arrest of four individuals engaged in illegal mining within the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve in the Western North Region.

The operation, which took place on Sunday, March 9, 2025, in Compartment 17 and 20 of the reserve, follows multiple attempts by forestry officials to remove illegal miners from the area.

Earlier, on March 4, operational staff from the Enchi Forest District, along with the Forestry Commission's Rapid Response Team, raided the reserve and drove out 12 excavators engaged in illegal mining.

However, due to the miners' superior numbers and possession of weapons, no arrests were made.