The Osagyefo Forest and Timber Protection Committee has raised alarm over the worsening state of the Mpamesu and Kwaebibirem Forests in the Dormaa Traditional Area, appealing to government for immediate military intervention to curb the destructive activities of illegal loggers.
According to the Committee, armed illegal operators have invaded the forests and are indiscriminately felling trees, leaving the once-rich reserves in a severely devastated state.
Concessionaires legally permitted to work in the area are reportedly under constant attack from unauthorized loggers, worsening the crisis.
Addressing a press conference, the Chairman of the Committee and Twafoɔhene of the Dormaa Traditional Area, Barima Osei Twumasi Bekoe, stressed that the situation had reached alarming levels and could lead to the total depletion of the reserves if decisive action was not taken.
He therefore appealed to government to deploy military personnel to restore order and safeguard the forests.
Reinforcing the call, BaafoÉ” Siaw Tabiri, Ankobea Mawerehene of Dormaa, cautioned residents against engaging in illegal logging, warning that no excuse would be entertained for offenders.
He further stated that chiefs and opinion leaders should not attempt to intervene on behalf of those caught in the act.
The Committee emphasized that protecting the Mpamesu and Kwaebibirem Forests was a collective responsibility, warning that failure to act urgently could result in the complete loss of the reserves and the vital natural resources they provide.