A 13-year-old boy has tragically lost his life after drowning in an abandoned quarry pitf at Aboabo, near Koforidua. The old quarry site, which has long been left unattended to over the years has developed into a deep pool that continues to pose serious danger to residents.
According to residents, the site has been in existence for many years, with old abandoned machines scattered around. Blasting activities previously carried out at the location caused underground water to seep to the surface, creating the large pool. They also alleged that strong chemicals were used in the water to soften rocks for blasting, raising further concerns about its safety.
Over the weekend, four children reportedly went to the old quarry site, popularly referred to as “Aboabo New York,” to swim. During their activities, the 13-year-old boy, a JHS 1 student, drowned. Out of fear, the other three children did not immediately report the incident, leaving the body in the water overnight.
The following day, four young men attempted to retrieve the body but were unsuccessful. They were then instructed to perform certain traditional rituals, which required eight eggs and schnapps, before the body could be recovered. The boy’s family also performed their own rituals as part of the retrieval process.
The body was eventually removed and has since been deposited at the Eastern Regional (ER) Roman Hospital morgue.
Residents say the most alarming part of the situation is that there are reportedly three large high-tension cables running close to the quarry, making the area even more hazardous.
Community members are calling on authorities to secure or reclaim the abandoned quarry to prevent further loss of life.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
