The Akuapem South Municipal Assembly in the Eastern Region has confirmed the arrest of two individuals, including the Curator of the Aburi Botanical Gardens, over the alleged unauthorised felling of trees at the historic tourist site.
The arrests follow public outrage on social media after images circulated showing sections of the gardens with felled mature trees, raising serious concerns about the safety of the forest reserve, its biodiversity, and its long-standing cultural and ecological significance.
In a press release dated January 16, 2026, the Municipal Assembly said the suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue into the incident, which has attracted widespread public and media attention.
According to the Assembly, management, in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, launched immediate investigations after reports emerged that trees had been cut down at the Aburi Botanical Gardens, a nationally recognised ecological and tourism heritage site.
“The Assembly assures the general public that comprehensive investigations are actively ongoing, and persons found culpable will face the full rigours of the law,” the statement said.
The release was signed by the Municipal Chief Executive, Paul Osae Offei, who emphasised that the gardens remain a treasured ecological, cultural, and tourism asset that must be protected for present and future generations.
The incident has also drawn strong reactions from civil society. Citizen activist Sam Mante condemned the act and called on government authorities, traditional leaders, and relevant state institutions to intervene urgently to prevent further degradation of the site.
A technical assessment team has since been deployed to determine the extent of the damage, while plans are underway to develop a restoration strategy in consultation with the Department of Parks and Gardens in Accra.
Describing the situation as deeply troubling, the Municipal Assembly reiterated that the Aburi Botanical Gardens is an integral part of Ghana’s and Okuapeman’s heritage, warning that any destruction of the site undermines national conservation efforts.
The public has been urged to remain calm and allow due process to take its course, while anyone with credible information has been encouraged to assist ongoing investigations by contacting the Akuapem South Municipal Assembly or the Aburi Police Station.
By Paqmediagh/Peter Quao Adattor
