Grand Kru: Tragedy strikes during illegal gold-mining operation; two dead, one injured

By Emmanuel Koffa

Trehn District – A tragic incident has taken place along the banks of the Kulordeh River, Grand Kru County, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and leaving another seriously injured during an illegal gold-mining operation recently.

The deceased, identified as 28-year-old T. Wish Sloh Thomas and Tom C. Weah Jr., 30, were reportedly mining for gold when a large stick fell on them, leading to their demise.

A third individual, Mark Kayoun, 22, who was later transported to a nearby health facility for urgent medical care, is currently receiving medical attention for serious injuries sustained as a result of the fatal incident.

The trio were operating from a boat on the river when the accident occurred, according to eyewitnesses, who divulged that the sound of the falling stick blared aloud to the hearing of many persons nearby, as moments later the victims were discovered trapped under its debris.

Following the tragic incident, Grand Kru’d Trehn District police commander Fedisco led a team of officers to the scene to conduct a preliminary investigation, commencing the gathering of information and interviewing of witnesses immediately upon arrival.

Two persons, Robert T. Toe, the owner of the boat used for the illegal mining operation, and Obina Chea Toe, have been taken in by the police, and are undergoing investigation, with reports that they are likely to be forwarded to court shortly.                                          

“The loss of life in such circumstances is deeply troubling, and our thoughts are with the families affected by this tragedy,” said Commander Chea at the scene of the catastrophic incident.

He added, “We urge the community to refrain from illegal mining activities, as they pose significant risks not only to safety but also to the environment.”

Meanwhile, after the coroner’s jury set up to examine circumstances surrounding the demise of the men reported that there was no foul play in their deaths, their corpses were turned over to their families for proper burial.