Tensions have escalated in Samereboi after a group of irate youth blocked access roads to the Sarmatex Timber Company in protest of the arrest of illegal miners operating in a nearby forest reserve.
Reporting from the scene, JoyNews’ Erastus Asare Donkor noted that the protesters—believed to be acting under the directive of a local chief—disrupted traffic and allegedly assaulted staff of the timber company, demanding the immediate release of the detained miners.
The arrests were carried out by the Forestry Commission’s Rapid Response Team, who apprehended the miners for engaging in illegal mining activities (galamsey) within a protected forest zone.
This development follows the recent temporary withdrawal of the IGP’s special anti-galamsey task force from the area after conducting a series of operations against illegal mining camps. Despite the initial raids, the miners reportedly returned, prompting the latest arrests.
Local police have requested additional support to contain the situation and restore calm, as the road blockade continues to hinder movement in the area. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the detained individuals will face prosecution.
Amid ongoing challenges posed by illegal mining in forest reserves, community leaders are being called upon to step in and help de-escalate tensions.
