Atwima Kwanwoma demand action over galamsey pit-related deaths

Residents of Nweneso No.1 and surrounding communities in the Atwima Kwanwoma District of the Ashanti Region are appealing to government and security authorities to urgently reclaim abandoned illegal mining pits that continue to pose a deadly threat to lives.

According to the residents, several deep and uncovered pits left behind by illegal miners have turned into death traps, particularly for children and unsuspecting residents.

They claim people have fallen into the pits and drowned, with the latest incident reportedly occurring just a few weeks ago.

Speaking to journalists, the Assembly Member for Nweneso No.1 and Biragokrom Electoral Area, Kwame Atinka, said the situation had worsened and accused authorities of failing to act decisively.

He noted that while one miner had voluntarily reclaimed about 3% of the pits, 97% remain open and dangerous.

A Unit Committee member, Anthony Yeboah, and former Chairman, Isaac Dapaah, both alleged that the abandoned pits have already claimed several lives and dismissed claims by the District Assembly that reclamation works have begun.

However, the Atwima Kwanwoma District Chief Executive, Hon. Mrs. Grace Agyemang Asamoah, has refuted allegations that the Assembly is collecting money from miners for reclamation.

She challenged anyone with evidence to come forward and placed responsibility for the pits on the miners who created them.

She, however, assured that the Assembly will take steps to reclaim the affected areas.

The residents are now calling on the Ashanti Regional Minister and the Regional Security Council to treat the matter as an emergency and intervene immediately to reclaim the abandoned pits before more innocent lives are lost.