Armed men storm Bekwai Forestry Commission Office in a rambo style

Tensions ran high in Bekwai, Ashanti Region, after a group of over fifteen armed men, disguised as operatives of National Security, stormed the Bekwai District office of the Forestry Commission, forcibly removing staff and locking up the premises.

The men, wielding pump-action guns and other tools, reportedly threatened the Commission’s on-site security officers before driving out employees and securing the offices with their own padlocks.

The incident, which unfolded in broad daylight, left staff shaken and brought work at the government facility to an abrupt halt.

Eyewitnesses and officials within the Commission say the group had previously issued warnings in connection with recent arrests and the seizure of equipment belonging to illegal miners operating within the Oda River Forest Reserve.

The Forestry Commission has in recent months intensified operations to dismantle unauthorized mining activities in the area, a move that has sparked backlash from some quarters.

In response to the incident, officials at the National Security Secretariat have firmly denied any link to the group, describing the men as impostors.

Journalist Erastus Asare Donkor reports that security sources have categorically stated the individuals are not known to be affiliated with any recognized state security outfit.

Police officers responded swiftly, reopening the facility and restoring order. The group of armed men was later taken to the office of the Municipal Chief Executive for questioning and to assist in investigations.