Forestry Commission Condemns Mob Attack On Timber Checkpoint Facility In Bono East
The Forestry Commission has strongly condemned the vandalism and burning of a newly constructed accommodation facility for timber checkpoint personnel at Babatokuma near Kintampo in the Bono East Region.
According to the Commission, the incident occurred on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at about 3:30 p.m., when an irate mob reportedly attacked the facility and assaulted officers stationed there.
In a statement issued in Accra on June 10, the Commission said personnel had been deployed to the checkpoint to strengthen monitoring of the overland movement of timber products and help curb the illegal transportation of timber and related products to neighbouring countries.
The Forestry Commission disclosed that the attackers claimed the checkpoint's operations posed a threat to their timber business interests in the area.
The mob allegedly forced its way into the facility, vandalised the structure, and subsequently set it ablaze.
Personnel who sustained injuries during the attack were taken to the Kintampo Government Hospital for medical treatment.
The incident has since been reported to the Kintampo Divisional Police Command for investigation.
The Commission stated that it is collaborating with the Police and other security agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
According to the statement, some of the perpetrators were captured on video, which is expected to aid ongoing investigations and arrests.
The Commission stressed that the incident was not only an attack on its personnel and property but also a direct challenge to state authority and ongoing efforts to protect Ghana’s forest resources.
The Forestry Commission expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of impunity in the forestry sector, noting that similar attacks on its personnel and offices have occurred in the past.
It warned that continued disregard for forest laws and regulations could have serious consequences for the country, including the depletion of forest resources and the resulting environmental and socio-economic impacts.
“The increasing disregard for forest laws and regulations has dire consequences for our nation if left unchecked,” the statement noted.
The Commission called on security agencies, traditional authorities, the media, Civil Society Organisations, and the general public to support efforts to address illegal activities and lawlessness within the forestry sector.
It also urged all stakeholders to work together to protect the country's natural resources and uphold the rule of law.
Despite the attack, the Forestry Commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting, developing, and sustainably managing Ghana’s forest and wildlife resources.
The Commission assured the public that it would not be deterred by acts of intimidation and would continue to carry out its mandate in the interest of present and future generations.
-Cecil MENSAH
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