Rescue efforts conclude at Mpasatia mining pit; no more victims found

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has updated the situation at Mpasatia. This follows a tragic illegal mining pit collapse in the Atwima Mponua District.

Authorities confirmed that two people were in the pit when it collapsed. Their bodies have been recovered. However, there is no evidence of more victims trapped underground. NADMO has not ruled out this possibility.

Charles Oduro Boahen, the Regional NADMO Operations Officer, spoke on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Thursday, April 3. He said they quickly assessed the situation and focused on finding survivors. “We have assessed the situation,” he stated. “Only two people were in the pit when it collapsed. Their bodies have been recovered, and no further remains were found.”

During rescue efforts, some local miners raised concerns with their behavior. Boahen noted that miners shouted for quicker action so they could resume digging. This indicates they plan to continue unless stricter measures are enforced.

The lack of adequate equipment also hindered rescue efforts. NADMO does not have excavators or earth-moving machines for such operations. They rely on collaboration with other agencies for assistance.

Boahen explained that NADMO lacks necessary machinery for these situations. “We rely on collaboration with other agencies,” he said. He added that requests for equipment take time to fulfill due to planning and logistics involved.