Omanghana
At least seven people have died after a mining pit collapsed at Asaman Tamfoe in the Atewa East District of Ghana’s Eastern Region.
Four others remain trapped beneath the debris as emergency personnel and community volunteers continue efforts to reach them.
The incident occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at a previously reclaimed mining concession. The victims were reportedly searching for gold at the site despite the serious dangers associated with mining on disturbed land.
Residents Mobilize Rescue Operation
According to reports, 11 miners were inside the pit when it collapsed. Two people who were outside the excavation at the time rushed to the community to seek assistance.
Residents quickly mobilized volunteers and alerted the police and emergency agencies. Rescue teams worked throughout the night and recovered seven bodies from beneath the debris.
All seven victims were found unresponsive. Five were reportedly residents of Moseaso, while the remaining two came from the Asaman Tamfoe community.
Their identities had not been officially released at the time of reporting.
Four Miners Still Trapped
Four people are still believed to be trapped underground, and search operations remain underway.
Personnel from the Anyinam District Police Command, the National Disaster Management Organization and the Ghana National Ambulance Service have joined community volunteers at the scene.
Responders face the difficult task of removing debris without triggering another collapse and endangering rescuers or those who may still be alive underground.
Authorities have not yet disclosed what caused the pit to cave in or whether weather conditions contributed to the disaster.
Reclaimed Mining Sites Pose Serious Risks
Reclaimed and abandoned mining pits present severe structural dangers because excavation weakens the surrounding soil and rock formations.
Even after a concession has been filled or restored, people who return to dig for minerals may encounter unstable ground, unsupported walls and hidden underground cavities.
Night operations create additional risks because of poor visibility and limited access to emergency equipment. Heavy or seasonal rainfall can also weaken the ground and increase the possibility of sudden cave-ins.
The Asaman Tamfoe incident has again highlighted the human cost of illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, and the continued occupation of abandoned or reclaimed concessions.
Beyond deaths and injuries from collapsing pits, illegal mining has been linked to deforestation, the destruction of farmlands and the pollution of major water bodies.
Police and other relevant agencies are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The number of casualties could change as rescue and recovery efforts continue.
Source: Omanghana
