At least nine people have been confirmed dead following the collapse of an abandoned mining pit at Kasotie in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region.

The tragedy occurred on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, around 4:30 pm, when the disused pit caved in on about 16 to 20 individuals engaged in illegal mining activities.

Rescue efforts continued through the night, and by 7:30 am on Thursday, October 2, nine bodies had been retrieved. Police reported that four survivors were in critical condition, receiving emergency treatment.

The Nkawie Divisional Police have conveyed the bodies to the Nyinahini Mortuary for identification and further directives.

The disaster has reignited public debate over the dangers of illegal small-scale mining, locally known as galamsey, which continues to claim lives and destroy the environment despite repeated government interventions.

Residents of Kasotie are urging authorities to reclaim and secure abandoned mining sites to prevent similar tragedies.

The incident has also triggered fresh agitation for decisive action from the government and regulators to clamp down on galamsey, citing its devastating impact on human lives, arable land, and water bodies.

For many in the affected community, the collapse is a painful reminder of the urgent need to balance livelihoods with safety and environmental protection.