Chinese galamseyers walk free due to lack of interpreters - Forestry Commission official

The prosecution of most Chinese galamseyers is often unsuccessful due to the absence of interpreters, Mr George Agbenowoshi, the Deputy Greater Accra Regional Manager of the Forestry Commission, has disclosed.

Speaking at a mini ceremony organised by parliament to mark the 2024 Green Ghana Day, Mr Agbenowoshi said: "These cases drag on in court and are eventually dismissed because we lack interpreters."

He said the problem poses a major challenge in the prosecution of Chinese galamseyers.

Mr Agbenowoshi also pointed out the severe shortage of logistics, such as pickup vehicles and motorbikes, hampers efforts to combat forest offences like illegal mining, farming and logging.

"Our field operations are severely impacted by the lack of resources, making it difficult to tackle these offences in our forest reserves," he lamented.