[Video] Armed men shut down Forestry Commission office in Ashanti Region

Over 15 fully armed men believed to be National Security operatives stormed the Ashanti Regional office of the Forestry Commission on Monday morning, shutting it down in a dramatic operation that left staff and bystanders in shock.

The armed personnel reportedly arrived without prior notice and informed workers that they were acting “by orders from above” before taking possession of the office keys and forcing everyone out.

The reason for the closure has not been officially disclosed, fueling speculation over what triggered the high-level security intervention. Staff members were visibly confused and distressed as operations came to an abrupt halt.

The office serves as a crucial hub in the fight against illegal mining, particularly in the Oda River Forest Reserve, which has become a flashpoint in the ongoing battle against galamsey.

This development comes amid mounting threats and attacks on Forestry Commission staff who have played a central role in clamping down on illegal mining operations across protected areas.

The Oda River Forest Reserve, a vital ecological zone and water source for the Obuasi Municipality, has seen increased encroachment by illegal miners.

In recent months, several commission officers have sustained serious injuries from gun and machete attacks during field operations in forest reserves such as Offin Shelterbelt and Obosomkese.