Many Feared Dead at Bogoso-Prestea Mine Following Suspected Gas Incident
A suspected gas leak in an underground shaft has led to a devastating loss of life at the Bogoso-Prestea Mine in the Western Region.
Authorities fear many miners, believed to be illegal artisanal miners (galamseyers), have died after suffocating underground.
An unidentified smoke, potentially from an explosive blast, filled the tunnels with toxic carbon gas, cutting off their oxygen supply. This tragic incident highlights the extreme dangers associated with unregulated mining activities.
Key Details of the Bogoso-Prestea Mine Incident
The catastrophic event occurred within the deep underground levels of the mine, specifically at levels 8 and 9. Heath Goldfields, the company currently managing the site, is at the center of the unfolding emergency. Rescue efforts are underway, but the exact number of fatalities remains unclear due to conflicting reports.
Some sources indicate that as many as 30 bodies have already been recovered, while others place the figure at 11. As of Tuesday evening, November 18, 2025, responders had retrieved three additional bodies from level 9, separate from the earlier casualties, bringing them to the surface.
Official Response and Ongoing Management Dispute
Local authorities have now launched an investigation into the Bogoso-Prestea Mine disaster. Graphic Online confirms that the Prestea Police are actively handling the case. However, official comments from either the police or Heath Goldfields are still pending, leaving many questions unanswered.
Complicating the situation is an ongoing legal dispute over the mine’s ownership; Heath Goldfields recently took over management, but the current leaseholders, Blue Gold, are contesting this move in court. This tragedy brings urgent attention to the critical issues of mine safety and regulatory oversight in the region.
