Fear As Illegal Miners Run for Safety After Mining Site Caves In, Video Sparks Debate
- A viral video on social media has brought renewed attention to the dangers of illegal mining, popularly known locally as galamsey
- The viral footage shows miners fleeing in panic after a mining site suddenly collapsed, trapping two excavators at the site
- The unfortunate incident has reignited public debate about the risks and life-threatening conditions illegal miners face daily
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A viral video circulating on social media has reignited concerns over the dangers associated with illegal mining, popularly known as “galamsey,” in Ghana.
The footage captures a chaotic scene where a group of illegal miners are seen running for their lives after a mining pit suddenly caved in.
Source: Twitter
The unexpected collapse triggered panic at the site, forcing dozens to flee in different directions in a desperate attempt to escape danger.
Amid the confusion, some miners were seen trying to salvage their tools, but heavy equipment, including two excavators, could not be rescued.
The situation worsened when the collapse created an opening that allowed a nearby water body to rush into the concession, nearly flooding the entire area and putting lives at further risk.
The incident has sparked renewed conversations about the hazardous conditions under which illegal miners operate, highlighting the constant danger they face in pursuit of a livelihood.
Many have pointed out that such risks are often overlooked, despite the frequent occurrence of similar incidents across mining communities.
Watch the X video here:
Galamsey miners brag about being untouchable
An illegal miner has boldly declared himself and his group untouchable. He openly defied the authorities while conducting enforcement operations at an illegal mining site.
Source: Facebook
In a video circulating on social media, the miner and his associates were seen engaging in unlawful mining activities as police arrived to survey the site.
This video highlighted the challenges the government faces in combating illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, as reported by ISS Africa.
Illegal mining remains a major issue in Ghana and many parts of West Africa, contributing to environmental degradation, water pollution, and social unrest.
Despite government crackdowns and regular raids, some operators continue to openly resist enforcement efforts.
As could be seen in the video, the galamsey operator used his camera to show off the activities with no concern for any obstruction or punishment from the government.
While recording the illegal mining activity, he said:
"All the police have come out, but still, we are working. No trouble here. We are not afraid of anyone. We are not afraid of anyone. The police are standing over there, but still, we are working. What will the government do to us?"
The video of the illegal miner bragging about their activities is below:
BECE candidate dies in Pramkuma galamsey pit
YEN.com.gh also reported that, despite government warnings against illegal mining, tragedy struck at Pramkuma, where a 16-year-old BECE candidate died after falling into a galamsey pit.
Yakubu David was allegedly being chased by armed security personnel. Friends said he was accused of stealing, beaten, and left for dead, leaving the community and family devastated.
David’s father appealed for justice, highlighting that many youths turn to illegal mining to survive amid harsh conditions. Apostle Eric Okai, a senior pastor, extended condolences to the family.
Source: YEN.com.gh
