Konongo Odumase a 'ticking time bomb' as illegal mining creeps into homes – Erastus Asare Donkor

Environmental journalist Erastus Asare Donkor has raised concerns about a serious issue in Konongo Odumase, Ashanti Region. Residents are living above a network of illegal mine shafts beneath their homes.

On JoyNews’ News Desk on May 12, Mr. Donkor called the town “a crime scene.” He highlighted violations of Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act. This law prohibits mining near human settlements and within 100 meters of public roads.

Despite these laws, both landlords and tenants are reportedly aware of the illegal mining activities. These operations have created large voids under the town's foundation. "They know the repercussions; they are aware," Donkor stated.

He noted that residents blocked a road due to fears of cave-ins from heavy vehicles.

One shocking detail is that some mine shaft entrances are inside bedrooms. "If you see someone entering a house in Odumase, he is going down a pit," he explained. Many houses have this dangerous feature.

Donkor warned that the town's foundation is fragile due to numerous underground tunnels. A significant tremor could cause catastrophic collapses, endangering many lives.

Despite these dangers, Donkor criticized local authorities for their inaction. "This is not a crime in the eyes of the police," he said. Many officers know about it but ignore it, with no arrests made.

JoyNews attempted to contact the local chief for comments but was unsuccessful. Donkor was told repeatedly that the chief was unavailable and unwilling to speak.

"Odumase is sitting on a ticking time bomb," Donkor concluded. “A major shake could lead to disaster in that town.”