A 14-year-old Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidate has died after being electrocuted at Nkawkawin the Eastern Region during a heavy rainstorm.

The incident occurred at White House, a suburb of Nkawkaw, after a downpour caused a main electricity cable to fall to the ground.

According to reports, the victim, identified as Richmond, was playing football when he came into contact with the live cable.

The Electricity Company of Ghana Manager for Kwahu West, Kingsley Agbesi, said preliminary findings suggest the boy fell onto the cable while playing. He attributed part of the risk to farming activities close to power lines, which he said interfere with maintenance and safety.

He urged residents to avoid planting near electricity lines and to observe safety regulations, particularly during the rainy season when such hazards increase.

The landlord of the deceased, Yaw Afrifa, described the incident as shocking and devastating for the community.

Residents have called on authorities to ensure regular maintenance of power lines to prevent similar incidents.

The body has been deposited at the morgue, while investigations continue.