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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 site.
The suspects are currently in police custody assisting with investigations, following public outrage triggered by images circulating on social media showing mature trees felled within sections of the gardens.
In a press release dated January 16, 2026, the Municipal Assembly said it launched immediate investigations in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service after receiving reports of the incident at the nationally recognised ecological and tourism 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, signed by the Municipal Chief Executive, Mr Paul Osae Offei, emphasised that the Aburi Botanical Gardens remains a treasured ecological, cultural and tourism asset that must be protected for present and future generations.
The incident has drawn strong reactions from civil society groups and environmental advocates. Citizen activist Sam Mante condemned the alleged act and called on government authorities, traditional leaders and relevant state institutions to intervene urgently to prevent further degradation of the gardens.
Meanwhile, a technical assessment team has been deployed to determine the extent of damage caused, while plans are underway to develop a restoration strategy in consultation with the Department of Parks and Gardens in Accra.
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 individuals with credible information are encouraged to assist ongoing investigations by contacting the Akuapem South Municipal Assembly or the Aburi Police Station.
Source: Ghana/channel247online.com/YawBoagyan
