Heath Goldfields Ltd has confirmed the deaths of three illegal miners who were trapped in one of its underground workings on the company’s Prestea concession.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the company said the group of illegal miners infiltrated an inactive section of the underground mine using unauthorized routes, ultimately gaining access to a restricted area.
Preliminary reports indicate that this breach of safety protocols resulted in the tragic loss of three lives.
Heath Goldfields extended its condolences to the bereaved families and the Prestea community, describing the incident as painful regardless of the circumstances.
“Every loss of life is painful and we stand with the affected families in grief and sympathy,” the statement read.
The mining firm said it is cooperating fully with authorities, including the Ghana Police Service, the Minerals Commission, and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), as investigations and recovery efforts continue. The company also commended the agencies for their swift and professional response.
Heath Goldfields noted that it maintains high operational standards and continues to implement stringent security and safety protocols across all its concessions.
It further assured stakeholders, traditional leaders, community members, regulators, and partners of its dedication to responsible mining, community engagement, and safeguarding livelihoods.
The company added that its community relations team is engaging local leaders to support families affected by the tragedy and to keep the broader community informed.
