The rescue operation to retrieve bodies of trapped miners in the Prestea-Nsuta pit in the Western Region has been put on hold.

This follows heavy rains in the area which has rendered the pit weak.

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Over 17 illegal miners are feared dead in the mining pit after being trapped since Sunday following a heavy downpour.

Five of the trapped bodies have so far been identified.

The disaster comes at a time when the government is fighting against illegal mining across the country.