A renewed fight against illegal mining in the Eastern Region has led to the arrest of two men accused of storming a reclaimed agricultural site at Aburi Nkwanta near Akyem Dwenase. The police move followed reports that the suspects had forcefully entered the farmland and caused extensive destruction.
The incident happened after DSP & Sons Limited, operators of a large 50-acre oil palm and cassava project, alerted authorities to an invasion on the restored land. The company, owned by Derick Asante and Okyeame Boadu Tinyase, had spent significant resources restoring a landscape previously damaged by years of illegal mining, acting on directives from the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, to convert degraded areas into productive farmland.
Investigations revealed that the suspects, identified as Marfo Joe and Kwabena Duku, had earlier contacted the landowners seeking access to the site for mining activities but were denied permission. Despite this refusal, the two allegedly returned on November 2, 2025, accompanied by heavy machinery, and forced their way into the plantation, damaging parts of the crops and land in the process.
A formal complaint was filed with the Akwatia District Police Command. Crime Officer Daniel Komla tasked Superintendent Sarkodie of the Akyem Apinamang Police Station to take immediate action, resulting in the apprehension of the main suspect, Marfo Joe. His arrest subsequently led to the capture of Duku, who is believed to have played a key role in arranging the illegal takeover of the land.
Both men have been granted police enquiry bail while investigations progress. As part of the case-building process, the Ministry of Agriculture has been called in to assess the financial value of the crops and sections of the farmland that were destroyed. The valuation report will be added to the docket ahead of charges and court proceedings.
DSP & Sons Limited maintains that the land restoration project required heavy investment, not only to revive the degraded area but also to create employment opportunities for residents. The company views the invasion as an attack on environmental recovery efforts and on livelihoods tied to the plantation.
The arrests come at a time when the NDC government has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining nationwide. Officials emphasize that the national strategy now combines strict enforcement with support systems aimed at guiding small-scale miners into regulated, environmentally compliant operations.
Communities around Akyem Dwenase have responded positively to the quick police action and want the case treated as a priority to deter future intrusions. Many locals, having lived through years of environmental destruction, say they expect a firm legal response that reinforces the government’s promise to protect lands and rivers from further degradation.
The unfolding case is already being viewed as a significant early test of the government’s determination to hold illegal miners accountable and to safeguard reclaimed farmlands from renewed exploitation. The affected communities and environmental advocates across the country now wait to see if the justice system will match the urgency shown during the arrests.
