The Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area and President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, Osagyefo Oseadeayo Dr. Agyemang Badu II, has announced plans to set up a task force to tackle illegal lumbering in the Asikasu No. 2 and Diabaa Forest Reserves.
The move follows his recent visit to the reserves alongside his elders, the Dormaa Central Municipal Chief Executive, Dominic Adoma Ameyaw, officials of the Forestry Commission, and security agencies. The tour aimed to assess the extent of damage caused by illegal activities.
Expressing deep concern over the destruction, Dr. Agyemang Badu II proposed the establishment of security posts at the forest’s entry and exit points for continuous monitoring. He also called for the task force to be equipped with modern audio-visual recording devices to aid in surveillance and enforcement.
He cautioned that task force members must operate with integrity, avoiding any form of financial inducement that could compromise their work.
Addressing allegations circulating about some individuals, the Dormaahene warned that anyone whether a politician or otherwise found engaging in illegal lumbering would face the full force of the law. He urged security agencies and the task force to carry out their duties diligently and without fear or intimidation.
