Five excavators have been seized while five suspected illegal gold miners have been arrested over the massive destruction of the Upper Wassa Forest Reserve in the Western Region.

This follows a special joint operation by the military, police and personnel of the Forestry Commission.

Mr Gabriel Agana, Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai District Manager of the Forest Service Division, who confirmed this to the Ghana News Agency, said the suspects, whose names are being withheld, are on detention at the Sefwi-Wiawso Police Station.

Mr Agana expressed worry about the extent of devastation of the reserve through illegal mining and timber operations, saying it has been ravaged completely.