Samuel Ackon, GNA
Assin Dansame (C/R), April 24, GNA- Two persons have been confirmed dead and another is in a critical condition following the collapse of an illegal mining (galamsey) pit at Assin Dansame in the Assin North District of the Central Region.
According to Superintendent Eric Yao Avudzivi, Assin Bereku Police Commander who confirmed the incident to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), the incident occurred around 1300 hours on Thursday, while eight miners were working inside a newly dug pit.
Reports indicated that the walls of the pit suddenly caved in, trapping three of the miners beneath heaps of loose soil and debris.
He said residents and other miners mounted a frantic rescue-effort but faced difficulties due to the unstable terrain and the depth of the collapse.
After several tensed minutes, the three victims were eventually retrieved from the thick mud.
Mr Christian Oduro, an 18-year-old sole survivor of the incident was rushed to a nearby health facility, where medical personnel described his condition as extremely critical.
He is currently receiving emergency treatment for multiple injuries.
The deceased, identified as Agnes Osei Bonsu, aged 22 and Nana Siaw, also a 22-year- old man, have been deposited at the New Edubiase Government Hospital morgue for preservation.
Meanwhile, the Police have launched an investigation into the incident, while officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), are yet to visit the scene to assess possible safety breaches.
Mr Edward Fireson, the Assin North District Director of NADMO, has confirmed the incident and indicated that steps were being taken to intensify the fight against illegal mining in the area.
GNA
Edited by Alice Tettey/Benjamin Mensah