Forestry Commission condemns mob attack on timber checkpoint facility

The Forestry Commission (FC) has issued a strong condemnation following the vandalization and burning of its newly constructed accommodation facility for timber checkpoint personnel in Babatokuma, Kintampo Forest District.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, saw an irate mob allegedly attack the facility, vandalize the structure, and set it ablaze. The accommodation was established to house personnel tasked with monitoring timber movement and preventing illegal transportation of timber products to neighboring countries.

In a statement, the Commission declared the attack an "affront to State authority" and a direct attempt to undermine efforts to safeguard Ghana’s forest resources. The FC expressed deep concern over a "worrying trend of increasing disregard for forest laws and regulations," noting that similar attacks on its personnel and offices have occurred previously.

Preliminary information suggests the attackers claimed the timber checkpoint operations threatened their business interests. The mob reportedly assaulted on-duty personnel before setting the accommodation block on fire. The affected officers received medical attention at the Kintampo Government Hospital. The incident is under police investigation, with the Commission working to identify and prosecute the perpetrators, some of whom were captured on video.

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The Forestry Commission strongly condemns such acts of lawlessness, particularly attacks on its personnel and the destruction of State property. We call on all well-meaning Ghanaians, the security agencies, traditional authorities, the media, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support efforts to address the growing impunity in the forestry sector.