Three suspected poachers have been arrested in Ghana's Mole Game Reserve, located in the Savannah Region. Rangers from the Forestry Commission apprehended Yonjie Domuo, 55, and Dari Kwabena, 24, during a routine patrol on Sunday, January 26, 2025. Four other suspects evaded capture during the operation.
The rangers seized four locally manufactured single-barrel guns and confiscated two sacks containing smoked antelope carcasses. The arrested suspects were subsequently handed over to the Damongo District Police for further investigation.
Martin Abodiba Ndego, Assistant Law Enforcement Officer at Mole Park, expressed alarm at the rising number of poaching incidents within the reserve. He noted that this was the third poaching arrest in January alone. Mr. Ndego highlighted the challenges posed by the reserve's vast size and the determination of poachers to penetrate its depths.
He emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to combat poaching, advocating for increased technological surveillance to complement the efforts of the rangers. "The park is extensive," Mr. Ndego stated, "and while our staff has intensified patrols, incidents of poaching persist. We need to use technology to complement the efforts of our rangers, ensuring every corner of the park is under constant surveillance."
Mr. Ndego also stressed the importance of continued community education programs to raise awareness about the devastating impact of poaching on wildlife populations and the importance of conservation efforts. He reaffirmed the Forestry Commission's commitment to prosecuting all poachers apprehended within the reserve. The ongoing struggle to protect Mole Game Reserve highlights the urgent need for enhanced resources and strategies to combat the persistent threat of poaching.
