Wildlife Guard Shot Dead in Kakum Forest Reserve; Poacher Still at Large

A wildlife resource guard has been shot and killed during a routine patrol in the Kakum Forest Reserve, marking a tragic escalation in the dangers faced by those tasked with protecting Ghana's protected forests. Richard Otwey, 58, was fatally wounded on Saturday, August 22, 2026, in the Assin Kruwa area of the Central Region after an encounter with suspected illegal hunters turned violent.

Otwey, attached to the Kakum Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission, was part of a three-officer patrol team when they encountered two men allegedly engaged in illegal hunting within the protected reserve. When the guards attempted to apprehend the suspects, identified as Bukari Abudu and John Mensah, Abudu allegedly drew a single-barrel firearm and opened fire on the officers. Otwey was struck in the chest and died at the scene. The quick action of his fellow guards led to the apprehension of Mensah, who is now assisting police with investigations. Abudu, however, fled into the forest and remains at large.

Investigators recovered significant evidence from the scene, located approximately 60 metres from the reserve boundary near a wawa tree, including a spent cartridge, footprints, and the single-barrel gun allegedly used in the shooting. The Central North Police Command is leading the investigation, with Chief Superintendent Edmund Agyemang Badu confirming the incident but declining further comment due to the ongoing probe. Otwey's remains have been transported to Abura Dunkwa Government Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examination.

Why it matters for Ghana

This incident underscores the escalating dangers facing Ghana's forest protection personnel and highlights the persistent challenge of illegal hunting in protected reserves. Kakum National Park and its surrounding forest reserves are among Ghana's most important conservation areas, home to critical wildlife populations and forest ecosystems. The killing of a dedicated officer reinforces concerns that conservation efforts are increasingly met with armed resistance from criminal networks engaged in poaching and illegal resource extraction. The incident also raises questions about the resources, training, and protective equipment available to frontline conservation staff tasked with enforcing forestry laws in isolated and potentially dangerous environments.

Ongoing manhunt and police appeal

Police and forestry authorities have intensified their search for Abudu, with the Central North Regional Police issuing a public appeal for information on his whereabouts. Residents and community members with knowledge of his location are urged to contact law enforcement immediately. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have stressed the importance of securing leads that could bring the fugitive to justice and prevent further violence against conservation personnel.

This fatal shooting is likely to reignite discussions about wildlife protection strategies in Ghana and the need for enhanced security measures for forest guards operating in areas where poaching remains rampant.