BECE candidate dead after falling into galamsey pit

A 16-year-old BECE candidate has tragically died after reportedly falling into a galamsey pit at Pramkuma in the Eastern Region of Ghana.

The student, Yakubu David, was in his final year at Akyem-Techiman Methodist Junior High School. According to local reports, the incident happened while he was in a car being chased by armed security personnel.

Police sources say David was engaged in illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) in an effort to support himself financially.

James Abanga, a resident who knew David, described the final moments as heartbreaking. He claimed that security men suspected David of stealing gold from a mining site and chased him with guns and cutlasses. James alleged that David was beaten before falling into the pit.

He further claimed that the teenager was beaten and then pushed, though there is no official confirmation from authorities about these details.

David’s death has left the Pramkuma community and his family in deep sorrow. His father, Yakubu Ayuba, expressed pain over the situation and explained that many young people turn to illegal mining due to poverty and limited opportunities. He called on the government to launch a full investigation and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

David had dreams like many students preparing to sit for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), but his life was cut short just weeks before the exams.

Illegal mining continues to pose a major problem in Ghana. It destroys the environment, pollutes water bodies, and puts the lives of young people at risk.

While the government and local organizations have made efforts to combat galamsey, poverty and lack of job opportunities still drive many into the dangerous activity.

Many are now calling for justice for Yakubu David and are demanding a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind his untimely death.