A tragic incident occurred on Monday, December 16, 2024, at Nkonteng, near Nkawie in the Atwima Nwabiagya Municipality of the Ashanti Region, when an illegal mining pit, locally known as a galamsey pit, collapsed, resulting in one fatality and injuries to three others.
The deceased, identified as 23-year-old Osei Kwabena from Offinso, was trapped under the rubble and could not be rescued in time. His body has since been deposited at the morgue.
Three other individuals were rescued from the collapse but sustained injuries. They are currently receiving medical treatment at the Nkawie Government Hospital.
Koyim Mahama Iddrisu, the Atwima Nwabiagya Municipal Director of the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), confirmed the incident in an interview.
“A good citizen called to report that a galamsey pit had collapsed on four people. Fortunately, three were rescued alive, but the fourth person, who was trapped in the pit, was retrieved lifeless. The injured individuals were rushed to the Nkawie Government Hospital for treatment,” he stated.
Illegal mining activities continue to pose significant risks to lives and communities across Ghana, raising concerns over safety and the enforcement of mining regulations.