By: Akua Oteng Amponsah
A devastating galamsey pit collapsed in Kasotie, Ashanti region, has claimed five lives, with several others injured.
The incident occurred when an abandoned pit caved in, trapping around 16 to 20 illegal miners. Rescue teams recovered nine bodies, and four people remain in critical condition.
The incident occurred in Kasotie located at the Atwima Mponua District, Ashanti Region, on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at approximately 4:30 p.m. The cause of the incident was the abandoned mining pit collapse, which resulted in 5 confirmed deaths and 4 critical injuries.
The tragedy further speaks to the dangers of galamsey, or illegal mining, which poses significant risks to miners and nearby residents.
Meanwhile, community leaders are calling for urgent action to reclaim abandoned sites and prevent future disasters.
A resident lamented, “This was preventable. How many more lives must we lose before abandoned pits are properly covered and monitored?”
The incident has deepened public outcry, with demands for stronger government action against galamsey. Civil society groups are urging a nationwide crackdown on illegal mining and stricter enforcement of existing regulations.
