A rescue operation at a mining concession in the Asante Akyem Central Municipality ended with both relief and concern on Friday, May 15, after 10 miners trapped beneath a collapsed underground pit were rescued alive at Konongo.
The incident occurred at a mining site operated by Northern Ashanti Mines Limited, where emergency responders and fellow miners worked for several hours to free the trapped workers from the rubble.
Speaking to JoyNews, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) said authorities were first informed about the incident on Wednesday and immediately launched rescue efforts with support from a team from Obuasi.
“I was told on Wednesday that some miners had been trapped under a pit, and this mining pit has a complete shaft within the concession of Northern Ashanti Mines. We started the rescue operation immediately. Thank God we had support from the Obuasi team. By evening, around 7 or 8, we were able to rescue all 10 people who were trapped, and they are very strong,” the MCE stated.
He added that the rescued miners are currently receiving medical care, noting that one victim remains in critical condition at the Konongo-Odumasi Government Hospital after suffering life-threatening injuries.
Residents and workers gathered at the scene throughout the operation as fears grew over the fate of those trapped underground. The exact cause of the collapse is yet to be determined, but investigations are expected to commence immediately.
