Residents and leaders of Banka in the Asante Akyeam South District of the Ashanti Region have raised significant concerns over the invasion of their forest reserve by illegal Chinese miners.
According to them, seven excavators have entered the forest without notice, sparking worries about the environmental impact and the community’s well-being.
They expressed that their community is already struggling with inadequate social amenities; however, the residents are concerned that the illegal mining activities will further exacerbate their suffering.
They are particularly worried about the pollution of their only source of water, which has already been affected by the miners.
The residents have called on the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, to intervene and halt the illegal mining activities.
They demand to know who is behind the invasion and urge the authorities to take immediate action to protect their forest reserve and livelihoods.
“We will not allow the Banka forest reserve to be destroyed by illegal miners,” the residents warned, appealing for urgent assistance to preserve their environment and natural resources.
