Ghana Forestry Commission honors ranger killed during anti-poaching patrol

The Forestry Commission of Ghana has held funeral rites and unveiled a memorial bust for Nana Richard Otwey, a 59-year-old Senior Ranger killed while protecting the Kakum Conservation Area.

Mr. Otwey was fatally shot in the chest on August 22, 2026, during a routine three-day anti-poaching patrol near the Kruwa community. While his team successfully apprehended one suspect, John Mensah, the second suspect, identified as Bukari Abudu, allegedly fired the fatal shot and escaped into the forest. Authorities recovered two single-barrel shotguns, hunting tools, and bushmeat from the scene.

The memorial monument was unveiled at the Wildlife Division’s Central Administration office to honor Mr. Otwey’s three decades of service. The Forestry Commission has announced a reward of GH¢50,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the suspect still at large.