The Nkawie Circuit Court has remanded 13 individuals for illegal mining in the Jimmirah Forest Reserve at Amangoase, situated in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region.

The accused face charges for unlawfully entering and mining in the forest reserve, which is currently undergoing critical afforestation efforts.

According to the Forest Services Division in Nkawie, Compartment 18 of the Jimmirah Forest Reserve is being rehabilitated under a partnership with a private developer.

Despite these efforts, the area has recently been invaded by illegal miners searching for gold, threatening the success of the afforestation initiative.

The situation prompted local residents of Amangoase to collaborate with Forestry Commission officers to address the illegal activities.

Their coordinated efforts resulted in the arrest of the 13 miners, who have been remanded in police custody. They are set to appear in court again on August 6, 2024.