Eleven illegal miners, commonly known as galamseyers, are feared dead after becoming trapped in an abandoned underground mine in the Bogoso-Prestea area of the Western Region.
Details of the incident remain unclear. Some residents report that a section of the mine collapsed, burying the miners, while others suggest that thick smoke, possibly from a blast, filled the tunnel and caused suffocation.
The abandoned mine is linked to Heath Goldfields, though the company has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident.
Citi News reporter Akwasi Agyei Annim confirmed that four bodies have so far been retrieved and taken to Prestea Government Hospital. The mine in question is one of several concessions that are currently not in operation.
The site was previously operated by FGR until its license was revoked in February 2024. A new operator was assigned in the last quarter of 2024. Sources indicate that illegal miners had entered the abandoned tunnels and were working when the blast occurred.
While initial reports suggested that 11 miners had died, only four bodies have been recovered to date, leaving the total number of casualties uncertain.
The incident reportedly occurred over the past weekend, and authorities are continuing efforts to secure the site and determine the full extent of the tragedy.
