Nine suspected illegal miners narrowly escaped death after becoming trapped in an abandoned underground mine shaft on the concession of Northern Ashanti Mines Company Limited at Konongo in the Ashanti Region.
The incident has renewed concerns over the persistent activities of illegal miners, commonly known as galamsey operators, within abandoned mining sites in the area.
According to the management of the company, the affected individuals were not employees of the mining firm but persons who had unlawfully entered the concession to engage in illegal mining activities.
Preliminary information indicates that the group accessed one of the old underground shafts on the concession before becoming trapped in what the company described as a near-fatal situation.
The matter has since been reported to the Police and other security agencies for investigations and further action.
Management said the incident highlights the growing dangers associated with illegal mining, particularly within abandoned underground structures that pose serious safety risks due to unstable conditions and deteriorating infrastructure.
The parent company, Nguvu Mining Limited, said it is working closely with the Police, the Military, the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC), the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), and traditional authorities to intensify efforts to remove illegal miners from the concession and dismantle unauthorised operations.
The company warned that illegal mining activities continue to endanger lives, destroy the environment, and undermine lawful mining operations within the enclave.
It further cautioned individuals against entering abandoned shafts and old mining installations, stressing that such structures remain highly hazardous.
Northern Ashanti Mines Company Limited currently holds a 163-square-kilometre concession within the Konongo enclave and is undertaking redevelopment works ahead of the commencement of full-scale mining operations expected in 2026.
Management reiterated its commitment to responsible mining practices in accordance with the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), while promoting environmental sustainability and community development within the Ashanti Region.
