Forestry Commission task force cracks down on illegal bush meat trade in Wassa West

A joint task force from the Forestry Commission and Ankasa Conservation Area has disrupted the illegal sale of endangered species at Bogoso Market in the Wassa West District.

The operation, conducted under the Wildlife Resource Management Act 1115 (2023), targeted unlicensed traders selling species like forest tortoises, pangolins, and baboons.

Regional Wildlife Manager Richard Ofori Amanfo described the situation as alarming, emphasizing the critical need to protect Ghana’s biodiversity.

The operation, part of the annual closed-season monitoring from August 1 to December 1, aims to enforce hunting restrictions, allowing wildlife to repopulate.

Grasscutter was the only species permitted for sale under license, but many traders lacked awareness or compliance.

Officials educated traders on sustainable practices, urging public support to report illegal activities, safeguard livelihoods, and ensure species survival for future generations.