WEST POKOT, Kenya — At least four people were tragically killed and several others trapped after a gold mine collapsed in Karon Village, Turkwel, West Pokot County, on Saturday morning, June 7.
The injured were swiftly transported to Kapenguria County Referral Hospital for urgent medical attention, while the bodies of the deceased have been moved to the facility’s mortuary. David Chepelion, the West Pokot County Government Disaster Management Chief Officer, confirmed that medical teams are working tirelessly to save the survivors.
“It’s sad that we have lost our people, as the county government we will do everything to ensure we support the affected families,” Chepelion stated.
West Pokot leaders, including Governor Simon Kachapin, expressed profound sorrow over the incident and condemned illegal mining activities prevalent in the area, urging security forces to intervene.
“My deepest condolences to the families affected. To the injured, I wish you a quick recovery. To the families waiting and praying, we are with you. Rescue efforts are ongoing, and we remain hopeful. Let us stand together in prayer, compassion, and support during this difficult time,” Governor Kachapin conveyed.
Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong echoed these sentiments, saying: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life this morning following the collapse of the gold mines in Turkwel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured, and we wish them a fast and full recovery.”
The legislator further emphasized strong opposition to unauthorized commercial mining. “We remain firmly opposed to illegal commercial mining in West Pokot. These operations, driven by greed and carried out without regard for safety or regulation, continue to put lives at risk and exploit our land and people.”
The rescue operation was spearheaded by the county police commander and personnel from the county government’s disaster management department, with significant assistance from local residents and fellow gold miners in recovering the bodies.
This devastating incident occurs just days after residents and leaders in West Pokot County protested against illegal mining operations in areas including Orwa, Kambi Karaya, Lami Nyeusi, Turkwel, and Rumos.
Local communities and officials have called for an immediate halt to these ventures, citing concerns over exploitation by foreign entities, environmental destruction, pollution, negative impacts on education, escalating land conflicts among clans, and alleged corruption involving certain government officers and leaders.
The collapse was first reported to Marich Police Station around 3 AM by an individual identified as Chris.
According to Chris’s account, approximately 15 artisanal miners arrived at the site, near the Turkwel River within Kositei Sub-location, at about 2 AM to excavate gold. It was during this mining process that the walls of the mine gave way, entombing the workers.
A police report indicates that shortly after the incident, various agencies including KDF, GSU, NPR, DCI, ASTU, KWS, NGAO, and Red Cross officers were dispatched to assist in the rescue operation.
During the painstaking efforts, some individuals were rescued unharmed, while five others with serious injuries were transported to Turkwel Hospital for treatment. Tragically, four individuals died instantly at the scene.
The deceased have since been identified as Lotudung Leng’ole (49), Lemareng Lorionomut (25), Siliye Chepomerkut (32), and Poshen Termoi (27). Among the injured are Kodeng Moses, David Lokodomuk, Lotuwun Tople, Alias Lomerkada, and Alias Ortum.
