3 persons confirmed dead in collapsed mining pit at Akyem Wenchi

Three persons have been confirmed dead, with several others feared trapped following the collapse of a mining pit at Akyem Wenchi in the Denkyembour District of the Eastern Region.

The Chairman of the District Security Council, who also serves as the District Chief Executive (DCE), Umar Ahmed, confirmed the tragic incident.

Rescue efforts are currently underway; however, the operation is facing challenges due to the resistance from some miners and youth.

This has hindered the efforts of police and emergency personnel, including officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO).

“It is an unfortunate and difficult situation we are dealing with. Rescue efforts were ongoing, but we were met with resistance from the miner and youth who had massed up around the pit. We definitely need more personnel from the military to assist in the rescue operation.” the Denkyembour DCE Umar Ahmed said.

The exact cause of the mine collapse remains unclear at this time.

Meanwhile, devastated residents have gathered at the site, which remains hazardous due to the uncovered pit filled with water.