Heath Goldfields Ltd. has confirmed the recovery of three bodies of illegal miners who were trapped inside its inactive Prestea concession after entering restricted underground sections through unauthorised routes.
The grim discovery comes amid persistent local reports that as many as 11 galamseyers may still be missing following a weekend collapse and suspected suffocation incident deep inside abandoned shafts previously operated by the now-defunct Future Global Resources (FGR).
In a statement issued Wednesday morning, Heath Goldfields expressed profound sorrow:
“Every loss of life, regardless of circumstance, is painful. We stand with the affected families in grief and sympathy.”
Residents say the miners entered the old FGR tunnels late last week, and thick smoke (possibly from a blast) quickly filled the passages, cutting off oxygen. Some managed to escape and raised the alarm, but several others never resurfaced.
The company stressed that the concession has been officially inactive since FGR’s licence was revoked in February 2024, and that it maintains strict security to prevent illegal entry. Despite this, galamseyers continue to risk their lives by using hidden “rat holes” and disused ventilation shafts.
Heath Goldfields is fully cooperating with:
Ghana Police Service
Minerals Commission
National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO)
Local traditional authorities
Emergency teams are still pumping fresh air into the tunnels while specialised rescue units attempt to locate any remaining survivors or bodies. The operation is described as “extremely dangerous” due to unstable ground and toxic gases.
Community leaders in Prestea-Bogoso have renewed calls for government to deploy permanent military presence at all abandoned large-scale mine sites, warning that without it, such tragedies will keep repeating.
Heath Goldfields has pledged ongoing support to affected families and reiterated its commitment to responsible mining and community safety.
As the recovery effort continues, the death toll stands at three (with fears it could rise significantly in the coming hours).
