Residents of Aboduabo in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipal of the Western North Region have raised alarm over an alleged invasion by forest guards who reportedly assaulted cocoa farmers and a former assembly member. The incident, which occurred early Monday morning, has heightened tensions between the community and the Forestry Commission.
According to eyewitnesses, the guards stormed the cocoa farms without prior notice, allegedly destroying huge acres of cocoa farms and other valuable farm produce. Several forest guards are said to have fired warning shots indiscriminately, causing panic among the workers and residents. The incident reportedly involved the use of fire, injuring innocent farmers and spreading chaos throughout the farms. Many farmers have expressed fear for their safety, describing the act as unprovoked and violent.
Hon. Gyasi New Love, the former Assembly Member for Sefwi Anhwiaso Electoral Area, was reportedly assaulted while attempting to mediate between the guards and the farmers. Following the attack, he was admitted to the Bibiani Government Hospital for treatment. “I went there to calm the situation, but they turned on me, pushing and hitting me with gun barrels in front of my people,” he recounted.
According to Mr. Gyasi, the piece of land on which the farmers operate belongs to him, and he has all the necessary documents to support his ownership claim. He expressed surprise and frustration over why the forest guards continue to terrorize them despite the legitimate ownership.
He has threatened legal action against the Forestry Commission and called for prompt action from President John Mahama and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that such lawlessness ceases. Mr. Gyasi warned that if no action is taken, the community may be forced to defend their rights by taking matters into their own hands.
Community leaders have also called on the Forestry Commission and the government to investigate the matter promptly and ensure justice for the victims. They demand clearer communication channels before any forest enforcement action in the area. The Forestry Commission has yet to release an official statement, but sources indicate that an internal inquiry may be underway.
Residents of Aboduabo have vowed to remain vigilant and stage a massive demonstration against the government over such barbaric acts by these so-called forest guards, emphasizing the importance of protecting their livelihoods. They warn that further unprovoked actions by officials could escalate tensions and lead to community unrest.
