 are feared dead following a tragic underground incident at the Bogoso-Prestea Mine in the Western Region.){kind=link}
Many suspected illegal miners (galamseyers) are feared dead following a tragic underground incident at the Bogoso-Prestea Mine in the Western Region.
The victims are believed to have suffocated after an unidentified smoke, reportedly linked to a blast, filled levels 8 and 9 of the underground mines with carbon gas. The mine is currently under the management of Heath Goldfields.
Sources within the mine reported that the disaster occurred on Sunday, November 16, 2025, but remained unreported publicly for days. As of 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, three bodies had been retrieved from level 9 and brought to the surface. Eyewitness accounts vary, with some sources estimating the death toll at about 30, while others put the figure closer to 11. The exact number is yet to be confirmed.
No official statement had been issued by Heath Goldfields or relevant government agencies. Some community members and workers suggested that there was an initial effort to keep the matter out of public attention.
The incident has since been reported to the Prestea Police, who are said to be investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Heath Goldfields only recently assumed operational control of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine, a concession long plagued by incursions from illegal miners who often descend into abandoned or restricted underground sections at great personal risk.
Families of the suspected victims and residents of the surrounding communities are anxiously awaiting official communication as rescue and recovery efforts continue.