Illegal Miner, About 40, Drowns in Kyebi While Fleeing Arrest

KYEBI, Eastern Region – Wednesday, July 8, 2026.An unidentified illegal miner, believed to be about 40 years old, has reportedly drowned in a river at Habitat in Kyebi, in the Eastern Region, while attempting to escape arrest by security authorities.

According to eyewitness accounts, the illegal miners had allegedly destroyed a major water body in the area. When security officials moved in to apprehend them, one of the miners jumped into the river to evade arrest.

The incident occurred around 11:00 AM today. As of the time of filing this report, rescue teams and security personnel had not been able to retrieve the body.

Authorities at the scene have called for backup to support ongoing rescue efforts to recover the missing man.

Residents have expressed concern over the increasing destruction of water bodies by illegal mining activities in the area, and are calling for stricter enforcement to protect the environment.

By George Botha