At Least 15 Dead After Gold Mine Collapse in West Pokot

At least 15 people have died after a gold mine collapsed at Rumos Hills in West Pokot County. 

Rescue teams are searching for more miners feared trapped beneath the debris, while six survivors have been taken to the hospital for treatment. The collapse happened when a large rock fell onto an area where artisanal miners were working, causing the mine to give way.

Local chief Isaac Lomwai said the miners were buried under the rubble as rescuers began digging through unstable ground in an effort to reach those trapped. Witnesses at the scene reported hearing sounds from beneath the debris, raising hopes that more survivors may still be alive.

Authorities said ten of those killed were women. Emergency teams, including the Kenya Red Cross, police officers, and local volunteers, remain at the site as rescue operations continue.

Medical staff at Kapenguria Referral Hospital are treating the injured, with three patients reported to be in critical condition. Dr Caren Cheyech said two of the most seriously injured victims had undergone surgery, while others were under close observation.

The incident comes days after West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin warned about the increase in unsafe and unregulated mining activities in the region. Artisanal gold mining is a major source of income for many residents, despite repeated safety concerns.

Previous mining accidents in West Pokot, including collapses in Kampi Karayi and Turkwel last year, also resulted in deaths.