The Aowin Traditional Council is accusing its Member of Parliament, Oscar Ofori Larbi, of being involved in illegal mining operations in the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve.
It has called on all stakeholders to collaborate to stop the destruction of the Forest.
This call to action comes after a deadly clash between two illegal mining groups, which resulted in two fatalities and several injuries.
The Aowin Traditional Council on January 27 held a news conference urging Lands and Natural Resources Minister-designate, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah to protect the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve, which has been infiltrated by illegal miners despite a ban on such activities by the traditional council.
The Council accused the MP of the area, Oscar Ofori Larbi of involvement. They alleged that he formed a Galamsey squad and hired thugs from Northern Ghana to work on his behalf after the NDC’s success in the 2024 elections.
“When Nana heard about the issue, we called Larbi, but he didn’t show up. Instead, KED, his special assistant, came to the palace and told us that the individuals engaging in illegal activities in the forest were operating with Larbi’s authority and power. He revealed that the squad formed by the MP was responsible for the destruction, and whenever confronted, they would claim to be working for or on behalf of Larbi.” Nana Ntow, Chief of Nkwanta recalled.
According to the Traditional Council, Oscar Ofori Larbi has ignored their calls to address these concerns, prompting them to call on the Regional Executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to intervene. However, the MP reportedly responded in anger.
Voice of Traditional council
The MP for Aowin Constituency Hon Oscar Ofori Larbi responded to the allegations.
Voice of Oscar Ofori Larbi
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