By: Michael Kofi Kenetey
Report says four young men have reportedly died, while about 20 others are still believed to be trapped in a galamsey pit underground at Akyem Wenchi in the Denkyembour District of the Eastern Region.
The cause of the collapse is currently unknown.
Rescue efforts are ongoing following the collapse of pit with personnel from the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana National Fire Service, and the Ambulance Service.
The rescue team is working alongside residents in a desperate attempt to save the lives of those still trapped in the pit.
Emergency responders say efforts are being hampered by the unstable nature of the collapsed site, but rescue operations are continuing.
The District Chief Executive for Denkyembour, Omar Ahmed, speaking to the media noted that efforts are underway to rescue the remaining twenty people trapped under the galamsey pit at Akyem Wenchi in the Eastern Region.
According to him, the Assembly, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), is searching for the necessary equipment to carry out a rescue operation — but efforts have so far been unsuccessful.
Mr. Ahmed revealed that he was unaware the site, which had been earmarked for reclamation, was still being mined.
He urged those engaging in illegal mining activities at the location to cease immediately. So far, four people have been rescued: three were found dead, and one is currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
