31 Remanded for Apamprama Forest Reserve Invasion

The Bekwai Circuit Court on Tuesday remanded thirty‑one persons arrested by the Forestry Commission for allegedly invading the Apamprama Forest Reserve, ordering them to reappear on 12 January 2026.

The hearing was presided over by His Lordship Isaac Apeatu, who rejected the bail pleas and ordered the accused to remain in custody.

Prosecuting officer Detective Inspector Eric Twum explained that the large number of defendants required more time to compile evidence and asked the court to refuse bail. "Given the volume of defendants, we will need additional time to assemble the facts and relevant documents," Twum said.

Defence counsel Prince Andrew Akawole argued that the suspects arrived on 27 December 2025, do not speak English or Twi, and have reputable community members ready to act as sureties, reducing any risk of flight. "My clients are foreigners who arrived just a few days ago and lack the language skills to abscond; moreover, respectable community members are ready to stand as sureties," Akawole said.

Judge Apeatu, noting the seriousness of illegal forest invasion and its associated penalties, ruled that bail could not be granted. "Considering the nature of the offence and the penalties attached, I am unable to grant bail," the judge stated.

The case has been adjourned to 12 January 2026, with all thirty‑one accused remanded in police custody until the next hearing.

The development highlights the Forestry Commission’s intensified crackdown on illegal encroachment and raises questions about the legal treatment of recent arrivals facing serious charges.

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