Tragedy in Bogoso: Over 11 Illegal Miners Feared Dead After Abandoned Pit Collapse

A tragic incident has occurred within the Bogoso-Prestea mining enclave, where over eleven illegal miners are feared dead following the collapse of an abandoned mining pit.

According to preliminary reports, the miners locally referred to as “galamsey” operators had entered the disused pit in search of gold when the walls of the shaft caved in, trapping them beneath tons of earth.

The incident reportedly happened in the early hours of 17th November, 2025, and emergency efforts to retrieve the bodies are ongoing as many have been retrieved.

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Local reports indicate that the pit, which had been abandoned for several years, is located in a restricted area previously operated by a large-scale mining company.

Despite warnings and signs indicating the dangers, illegal mining activities in the area have been persistent due to high levels of unemployment and the lucrative nature of small-scale gold extraction.

Rescue teams, including personnel from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Ghana Police Service, and local volunteers, have been deployed to the site.

However, the unstable nature of the collapsed pit is reportedly hampering efforts to recover the victims.

This incident adds to the growing number of fatalities associated with illegal mining in Ghana, particularly in regions rich in mineral deposits but plagued by weak enforcement of mining regulations.

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Authorities have yet to release an official death toll or the identities of the victims.

Meanwhile, the Western Regional Coordinating Council and the Minerals Commission are expected to issue a formal statement as investigations into the incident continue.

The tragedy has once again drawn national attention to the dangers of illegal mining and the urgent need for sustainable interventions to curb the practice, protect lives, and preserve the environment.

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May the souls of the deceased rest in peace.