Member of Parliament for Amenfi West constituency in the Western region, Eric Afful has called for an immediate investigation into destruction of the Tano Forest Reserve by a small scale mining company.
The lawmaker who expressed grave concern about the general dissipation of forest reserves across the country was deeply worried that the Minerals Commission allegedly granted license to a company called Akonto Mines which described as ”exploitative company” involved in the destruction of the Tano Miniri Forest Reserve.
A statement signed by Mr Eric Afful noted that the said forest reserve was a concession given to Samartex Timber and Plywood Company by Ltd by the Forestry Commission to manage and wondered why the Minerals Commission would grant license to a small scale mining firm to destroy the forest cover and farmlands.
The MP said if no immediate action is taken to reverse the decision, Samartex Timber and Plywood Company Ltd which has employed several people for the management of the forest is likely to layoff its workers.
He also expressed worry that the security of the area would be disturbed as forest guards of the Forestry Commission, the security of Akonto Mines and the Security of Samartex are likely to clash.
Hon Eric Afful is therefore demanding an all stakeholder involvement full scale investigation into the issue as a matter of urgency.
Find below the full statement:
