Galamsey Pit Claims Another Life in Sefwi Akontombra
An illegal miner, identified as Ayoka Richmond and believed to be in his 30s, has tragically lost his life after falling into a galamsey (illegal mining) pit at Sefwi Akontombra. This latest incident brings the total number of such deaths in the district to eleven since April this year, intensifying the community’s fears and frustration over unchecked illegal mining activities.
Eyewitnesses reported that Richmond was working on a mining site when the pit suddenly caved in, swallowing him alive. The tragedy underscores a growing crisis in the district, where residents say their repeated warnings to authorities continue to be ignored.
According to local accounts, illegal mining operations have been ongoing in four communities—Ankara, Adukwasikrom, Akrodie, and Sikaneasem—despite desperate pleas from residents to halt the activities. The deceased, a resident of Kramokrom, had informed his mother he was heading to an illegal mining site last Friday. Sadly, he lost his life the following day.
“The land here is no longer safe,” lamented a distraught community member. “We keep losing people—farmers, children—because no one is taking responsibility for these death traps. We want the government to intervene because our local leaders are not showing concern.”
Residents say Ankara alone has recorded five deaths since April, yet no tangible action has been taken. “Our MP and District Chief Executive (DCE) are not doing anything to stop those involved in the illegal activities. We don’t know if they have a stake in this or what. We, the citizens, are lcalling on the government to intervene. We cannot allow innocent souls to perish like this,” another resident added.
When contacted regarding the latest fatality, the Member of Parliament for the area, Hon. Pius Kwame Nkuah, said he was unaware of the incident. “I am in Accra and I have not heard about what you are telling me. Only Harry knows what is happening over there,” the MP said, referring to local activist and NPP communicator Harry Addo.
The MP further accused Harry Addo of spreading negative news about the district and blamed poor telephone network connectivity for his lack of information. “Since yesterday, the network in Sefwi Akontombra has been very bad. I have no knowledge of this news,” he claimed.
His comments have triggered widespread outrage, with residents accusing authorities of neglecting their duties and failing to safeguard lives.
“This is not about politics; it’s about lives,” said one angry resident. “We cannot continue living like this—fearing for our lives every time we step outside.”
Despite continuous public outcry, illegal mining persists, and numerous abandoned pits remain unsealed, posing constant danger to locals. Community leaders and advocacy groups are now calling on the Minerals Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, and the central government to act swiftly and decisively.
As the death toll rises, Sefwi Akontombra stands as a grim reminder of the human cost of illegal mining—and the deadly consequences of neglect.
