Enchi court revokes order on seized excavators, admits ruling was wrong in law

The Enchi Magistrate Court has reversed its previous decision ordering the release of excavators and mining equipment confiscated from individuals accused of illegal mining in the Boin River Forest Reserve.

Initially, the court granted bail to four suspects and directed the Forestry Commission to return the seized machinery within three days.

However, following a motion filed by the Forestry Commission, the presiding judge overturned the ruling, declaring the previous order void.

Judge Buenor Buer stated that the District Court lacks jurisdiction over such matters and ruled that the two excavators and other mining tools would remain in the custody of the Forestry Commission until a higher court decides on the case.

He cited Supreme Court precedents, emphasizing the judiciary’s ability to correct its own errors to uphold legal integrity.

The case involves six individuals, with four failing to appear in court and two still at large.

Joe Appiah Frimong, Manager of the Enchi Division of the Forestry Commission, welcomed the ruling, describing it as a significant step in combating illegal mining in Ghana’s forest reserves.

He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to protecting the country’s natural resources from unlawful exploitation.