A galamsey pit collapse in Kukubi, a town in the Kwaebibirem Municipal District, has claimed the lives of two miners in a tragic incident that unfolded earlier today.
Eyewitnesses reported that the miners were buried alive when the pit they were working in suddenly gave way. Rescue attempts by fellow miners proved futile as both men were retrieved lifeless.
The first victim was pulled from the rubble using an excavator, but his lower body was severely severed during the operation. Hours later, the second miner’s body was recovered after traditional rites were performed at the site.
Police have since transported the deceased to the mortuary, and investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
This incident adds to the mounting toll of fatalities linked to illegal mining, also known as galamsey. Despite efforts to regulate and combat the practice, it continues to pose significant risks to human life and the environment in affected communities.
Calls for stricter enforcement and safer practices in mining have intensified as the region mourns yet another avoidable tragedy.