Three men have been arrested for illegal hunting activities within the Ankasa Forest Reserve, located in the Jomoro Municipality of the Western Region.
The suspects, identified as Frank Odame, Abraham Kwasi Sikapa, and George Avi, were apprehended by Resource Guards stationed at the Dadwen Range Camp during a routine patrol of the protected area.
According to the Forestry Commission, the trio was found in possession of illegal hunting gear, including three unlicensed shotguns, 18 live cartridges, seven flashlights, and several cutlasses — all of which were confiscated at the time of their arrest.
The men are currently facing prosecution, with forest authorities pushing for swift and strict enforcement of the law to serve as a deterrent.
The Ankasa Forest Reserve, one of Ghana’s most ecologically significant protected areas, is home to endangered wildlife and rare plant species. Illegal hunting not only threatens biodiversity but also undermines years of conservation efforts.
Officials from the Wildlife Division have reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources.
“The law must take its course. We are intensifying patrols and working closely with law enforcement to ensure our forests remain protected,” said a spokesperson.
The Forestry Commission has also urged the public to report any suspicious activity in forest zones, as part of a broader campaign to clamp down on poaching and environmental crimes.
This latest arrest adds to growing concerns over the increasing pressure on Ghana’s forest reserves from illegal logging, farming, and hunting activities.
