Two dead, one critical in galamsey clash at Tano-Anwia forest reserve

A violent confrontation between two armed groups in the Tano-Anwia Forest Reserve in Aowin Municipality, Western Region, has left two dead and one critically injured with severe gunshot wounds.

The clash occurred on Wednesday, January 22, during a renewed illegal mining (galamsey) invasion of the reserve.

Allegedly led by political activists, the armed miners have seized control of the biodiversity-rich area, threatening forestry officials.

Sources accuse the local MP of backing the siege, but he denies involvement, admitting only that the miners are "party boys."

Forest guards attempting to dismantle illegal mining equipment were later ambushed, assaulted, and disarmed by the miners.

The Forestry Commission now struggles to maintain control over the reserve, as key areas like Tano Anwia, Tano Nimri, and Yoo Yoo remain under siege.