Vitus Yourdong, a forest guard who went missing in the Asukesse Forest in Sunyani on July 2, 2023, has been found alive in Nkawkaw. Yourdong was found unconscious with his hands and legs tied near a refuse site on Monday, July 24, 2023. He is currently being treated at the Holy Family Hospital in Nkawkaw.
Yourdong was captured by suspected illegal chainsaw operators while he was on duty in the forest. He was reportedly tortured by his captors, who demanded a ransom of 50,000 cedis. The ransom was not paid, and Yourdong was eventually abandoned near the refuse site.
The police are investigating the case and have arrested two suspects. They are also looking into the possibility that other people were involved in Yourdong's abduction and torture.
The discovery of Yourdong alive is a relief to his family and friends, who had been searching for him for weeks. It is also a reminder of the dangers that forest guards face in their work to protect Ghana's natural resources.
Call for Action to Protect Forest Guards
The case of Vitus Yourdong has sparked calls for action to protect forest guards in Ghana. The Forestry Commission has said that it will provide more training and support for forest guards, and the government has promised to increase the penalties for illegal logging.
However, some observers believe that more needs to be done to protect forest guards. They argue that the Forestry Commission needs to be given more resources, and that the police need to be more proactive in investigating cases of illegal logging and violence against forest guards.
The discovery of Yourdong alive is a reminder of the importance of protecting forest guards. They play a vital role in protecting Ghana's natural resources, and they deserve our support.
