A tragic incident in Juaboso, Western North Region, has claimed the life of 13-year-old Tesnim Iddrisu, who drowned after falling into an abandoned illegal mining (galamsey) pit on Sunday, August 31, 2025.
According to local reports, the teenager had gone to fetch firewood when she slipped and fell into the water-filled pit. Despite efforts, she could not be rescued in time.
The accident has once again raised serious concerns about the dangerous condition of abandoned galamsey pits, many of which are left uncovered and unsecured in farming and rural communities. These pits, often filled with rainwater, have become deadly traps for unsuspecting residents, especially children.
Residents of Juaboso say this is not the first time such a tragedy has occurred.
“We are tired of burying our children and loved ones,” a community member said. “The government and District Assembly must act now to reclaim these lands and stop illegal mining once and for all.”
The community is urging urgent intervention from the government, District Assembly, and security agencies to enforce anti-galamsey measures and to ensure proper land reclamation in affected areas.
The death of Tesnim Iddrisu is a stark reminder of the human cost of illegal mining and the pressing need for sustainable and enforced solutions to protect communities at risk.
