A controversial ruling by the Enchi District Court has sparked widespread criticism after it ordered the release of two excavators and other mining equipment seized from suspected illegal miners operating in the Boin River Forest Reserve in the Western North Region.
The decision, issued on March 28, 2025, has raised concerns about Ghana’s ongoing battle against illegal mining, known as galamsey.
The case, The Republic v. Wisdom Amuzu & Others, involved the arrest of four individuals by the Forestry Commission and Enchi Police on March 23, 2025.
The suspects were allegedly engaged in illegal mining within the protected forest reserve, leading to the confiscation of their excavators and other mining equipment.
They were subsequently processed for court, with their machinery seized under anti-galamsey laws.
Despite the severity of the charges, the court not only granted bail to the accused but also ordered the Forestry Commission to return the confiscated excavators.
Furthermore, it directed that the suspects be allowed to relocate the machines to a location of their choice, under the supervision of the Enchi District Police Commander or his representatives, with a three-day deadline for compliance.
This ruling has drawn backlash from environmental activists, legal experts, and concerned citizens who believe it undermines Ghana’s efforts to combat illegal mining.
Critics argue that the decision contradicts Ghana’s Forest Protection Act of 1974, which imposes strict regulations on mining activities within protected reserves.
With illegal mining already causing extensive damage to forests and water bodies in the Western North Region, many see this ruling as a major setback in the fight against environmental degradation.
Security analysts warn that such court decisions weaken law enforcement efforts and embolden illegal miners, who may now feel encouraged to continue their activities knowing they can reclaim their seized equipment.
Calls for a review of the ruling are growing, with stakeholders urging the government to take a stronger stance against environmental violators.
As public pressure mounts, it remains uncertain whether the state will appeal the decision or introduce stricter legal measures to prevent similar rulings that could further threaten Ghana’s already fragile natural resources.
