Heath Goldfields Ltd. has confirmed the deaths of three illegal miners who entered its Prestea concession in the Western Region.
The victims were reportedly trapped in an inactive underground section of the mine after using unauthorised routes to access restricted areas.
Their deaths follow widespread reports in the Bogoso-Prestea enclave suggesting that up to 11 illegal miners—known locally as galamseyers—may have been trapped after parts of an abandoned mine caved in over the weekend.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, Heath Goldfields Ltd. expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended condolences to the families and the Prestea community.
“Every loss of life, regardless of circumstance, is painful, and we stand with the affected families in grief and sympathy,” the company said.
The mining firm said it is fully cooperating with the Ghana Police Service, the Minerals Commission, and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) as investigations and recovery efforts continue. It also commended the swift and professional response of emergency teams.
The affected mine was previously operated by FGR until its licence was revoked in February 2024. Although the concession is currently inactive, illegal miners are believed to have accessed abandoned underground tunnels through restricted passages. Some residents claim the miners may have suffocated after thick smoke—suspected to have come from a blast—filled the tunnel.
Heath Goldfields reaffirmed its commitment to rigorous safety and security measures across its concessions.
“As a responsible mining company, Heath Goldfields Ltd. remains committed to the highest standards of safety… We continue to implement stringent security and safety protocols across all our concessions,” the statement added.
The company also reassured stakeholders—including traditional authorities, regulators, partners, and residents—of its dedication to responsible mining and community engagement. Its community relations team is working with local leaders to support affected families and provide updates.
Several galamseyers trapped in abandoned mine; four bodies retrieved
