Two people have been confirmed dead, and one other is in critical condition after an illegal mining pit collapsed at Dansame in the Assin North District.
The incident happened on the afternoon of Thursday, April 23, while eight miners were working inside a newly excavated pit.
According to reports, the pit walls suddenly caved in, burying three miners under heaps of loose soil and debris.
Residents and fellow miners launched a desperate rescue operation but were hampered by unstable terrain and the depth of the collapse.
After several minutes, all three victims were pulled from the rubble. The lone survivor was rushed to a nearby health facility, where medical staff described his condition as extremely critical.
He is currently receiving emergency treatment for multiple injuries.
The deceased, a 22-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man, have been deposited at the New Edubiase Government Hospital morgue for preservation.
The police have opened an investigation into the incident, and officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) are expected to visit the scene to assess potential safety violations.
Meanwhile, Assin North District NADMO Director Edward Fireson confirmed the tragedy and said steps are being taken to step up the fight against illegal mining in the area.
