An unidentified miner has invaded the Draw River Forest Reserve, one of Ghana's major protected forests at Gwira Banso in the Nzema East District of the Western Region. In what could mark the beginning of a chain of forest degradation through illegal mining, part of the forest has been cleared and excavators moved to the site ready for operation. Management of Betterland Ghana Services, legal owners of a concession in the forest, has denied knowledge of the invasion. Erastus Asare Donkor went on the ground to assess the situation. Watch video: Tags:   Draw River Forest Reserve Galamsey Gwira Banso Illegal mining Nzema East Related to this story 'Galamsey': I have no knowledge invasion of Draw River Forest Reserve - MCE Otumfuo destools three chiefs over 'galamsey' Kwesi Yankah: Election year galamsey Turning the tide: How Amaja is restoring clean water to communities ravaged by illegal mining Encroachment: The 'galamsey' canker-facing the quarry industry  Illegal miners extend activities to middle of townships and along highways Alan to eliminate 'galamsey' within 2 years - Courage Nobi Galamsey is getting worse; there's no fight underway - Erastus Asare We can't stop galamsey; the youth have no other jobs - Chief tells Bawumia Dr Bawumia vows to deal decisively with 'galamsey' if elected president