Heath Goldfields confirms deaths of three illegal miners at Prestea site
Heath Goldfields Ltd. has confirmed the deaths of three illegal miners who entered its Prestea concession in the Western Region through unauthorised underground routes.
The individuals were trapped in an abandoned section of the mine, following a reported cave-in over the weekend. Their deaths come amid widespread claims in the Bogoso–Prestea enclave that as many as 11 illegal miners may have been trapped after attempting to access the dormant site.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, Heath Goldfields Ltd. expressed profound sorrow and extended condolences to the families and the wider 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 firm noted that it is cooperating fully with the Ghana Police Service, the Minerals Commission, and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) as investigations and recovery operations continue. It also commended the “swift and professional” work of emergency responders.
The affected mine was previously operated by FGR until its licence was revoked in February 2024. Although the concession has remained inactive since then, illegal miners are believed to have gained access through restricted underground passages. Some residents suspect the miners may have suffocated after thick smoke believed to have resulted from a blast filled the tunnel.
Heath Goldfields reaffirmed its commitment to rigorous safety and security standards, stating, “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 assured stakeholders including traditional authorities, regulators, partners and local residents of its dedication to responsible mining and community engagement. Its community relations team is working with local leaders to support the affected families and provide ongoing updates.
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