NGO condemns attack on Forestry Commission personnel at Babatokuma

A Rocha Ghana, an environmental non-governmental organization, has strongly condemned a violent incident where staff of the Forestry Commission were attacked and their accommodation at a timber checkpoint in Babatokuma, Kintampo District, was destroyed.

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These acts not only jeopardise the safety of Forestry Commission personnel and others working to protect Ghana’s forests and natural resources, but also undermine the rule of law and the collective national effort to safeguard our environment for present and future generations.

The NGO emphasized that the attack, which occurred on June 9, is unacceptable and could have easily resulted in loss of life. A statement issued in Accra highlighted that these acts not only endanger the personnel working to protect Ghana's forests and natural resources but also weaken the rule of law and national conservation efforts.

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when attacks against frontline personnel go unpunished or unresolved, they embolden perpetrators, weaken the enforcement of environmental laws, and erode public confidence in the administration of justice.

This incident is part of a disturbing pattern of threats and intimidation against environmental protectors. A Rocha Ghana stressed that unpunished attacks embolden perpetrators, weaken environmental law enforcement, and erode public confidence in the justice system. The organization urged the Ghana Police Service and other relevant agencies to conduct a swift, thorough, and impartial investigation.

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Greater transparency and accountability in the handling of this case and other similar incidents, including regular public updates on the progress of investigations and prosecutions to reinforce confidence in the administration of justice.

Furthermore, A Rocha Ghana called for immediate measures to bolster the safety and security of Forestry Commission personnel, especially in high-risk areas. They also advocated for firm, sustained action to deter future attacks and intimidation against those involved in environmental protection and law enforcement. The NGO stressed the need for greater transparency and accountability in handling such cases, along with enhanced inter-agency collaboration and investment in environmental law enforcement.

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Enhanced inter-agency collaboration and sustained investment in environmental law enforcement to combat illegal logging, illegal mining, wildlife crime, and other environmental offences that continue to threaten Ghana’s natural heritage and place frontline personnel at risk.