A suspected gas-related disaster at the Bogoso-Prestea Mine in the Western Region has reportedly claimed the lives of multiple miners, many believed to be illegal small-scale operators.
According to preliminary reports, toxic fumes—possibly linked to a blast—filled underground tunnels at levels 8 and 9, causing asphyxiation. Conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the death toll, with figures ranging from 11 to as many as 30 victims.
Rescue teams retrieved three more bodies from level 9 as of 7:00 PM on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. Authorities from the Prestea Police Division are currently investigating the incident.
The mine, now under the management of Heath Goldfields, has recently been the focus of legal disputes with former leaseholders Blue Gold. As of now, neither the company nor government officials have issued an official statement regarding the tragedy.
The incident raises renewed concerns about safety at small-scale and artisanal mining operations, where underground hazards and toxic gases remain a persistent threat.
