Vehicle swept away by Mara River floods recovered after days of search

A vehicle that was swept away by the Mara River floods on Sunday evening has finally been retrieved, following days of intense search and recovery operations coordinated by the Narok County Disaster Response Team.

The bodies of the two men who were inside the vehicle are, however, yet to be recovered as the search continues.

The tragedy is said to have occurred at Mara Rianta when the two, residents of Kirindon in Kimintet Ward, attempted to cross the river with their vehicle. 

The raging waters overwhelmed the vehicle, leaving the two men stranded and prompting an urgent rescue operation.

Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu confirmed Thursday, February 26, that the Narok County Disaster Response team are leading the recovery mission, working tirelessly to retrieve the vehicle and the bodies of the victims. 

"I am currently at Mara Rianta to lead the search and recovery efforts for the two young men whose vehicle was swept away by the Mara River floods,” Ntutu said.

The incident has once again highlighted the dangers posed by swollen rivers during the rainy season. 

"This is a painful reminder of the grave risks of attempting to cross flooded rivers or bridges, regardless of how passable they may appear,” he cautioned.

According to the governor, the two men, both residents of Kirindon, were returning from Mara Rianta when the river’s sudden rise swept their vehicle away. 

The swift currents and unpredictable floodwaters made immediate rescue extremely difficult, prompting the deployment of specialised teams to recover the victims and the vehicle wreckage.

Ntutu appealed to residents to exercise caution and remain vigilant during periods of heavy rainfall. 

"I urge all residents to exercise extreme caution and to refrain from attempting to cross flooded rivers. Your life is more important than any vehicle or journey,” he said.

The governor also revealed ongoing efforts to address the long-standing safety concerns at Mara Rianta Bridge, which has repeatedly claimed lives during heavy rains. 

"I am engaging the relevant authorities to urgently address the elevation of the Mara Rianta Bridge. We must take proactive measures to prevent such heartbreaking losses in the future,” Ntutu added.

Narok South MP Kitilai Ole Ntutu and other local leaders were present at Mara Rianta, showing support and assisting in coordinating the recovery efforts.

In addition to the immediate tragedy, the governor warned that continued heavy rainfall in parts of Narok County could trigger further flooding and landslides. 

"Heavy rainfall is expected across our county, with possible flooding. I urge residents to avoid flooded areas and swollen rivers and to contact the County Disaster Response Team in case of any emergency,” he said.

Ntutu extended his condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Kimintet community. 

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families during this difficult and trying time. Let us remain vigilant and safeguard lives and property,” he said.