At least 15 dead in West Pokot gold mine collapse as rescue operations continue

A rockfall at an informal artisanal gold mining site in Rumos Hills, Kacheliba Constituency, triggered a collapse on Thursday evening, killing at least 15 people, including 10 women, with fears that more miners remain trapped underground.

Emergency teams, including the Kenya Red Cross, local authorities, police, and community members, worked through the night and into Friday to recover bodies and search for survivors.

Rescuers used shovels and basic tools amid chaotic scenes as villagers rushed to the site.

Kenya Red Cross reported that at least six people were rescued alive and taken to the hospital for treatment. Sounds were reportedly heard from beneath the rubble, raising slim hopes for additional survivors. The agency noted earlier that 11 casualties had been accounted for, with three in critical condition referred to Kapenguria Referral Hospital.

“We are continuing with the rescue operations. A stone fell on the section they were working on before collapsing the mine, leaving them trapped,” said Lopet Chief Isaac Lomwai.

Kapenguria Hospital doctor Caren Cheyech said the facility received several victims: “We have received about six patients, and two of them have serious injuries and have been taken for surgery. We are closely monitoring them and providing the necessary medical assistance.”

 The exact number of people in the mine at the time of the collapse remains unclear.

Cabinet Secretary for Interior Kipchumba Murkomen condemned illegal mining and launched investigations. He instructed security agencies to arrest those engaged in unlicensed commercial operations and warned against such activities, especially following repeated fatal incidents in West Pokot.

West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin had recently highlighted concerns over unsafe and illegal mining. The county has seen similar tragedies, including collapses in 2025 that killed several miners.

Authorities have suspended all mining activities in the area to facilitate rescue efforts and prevent further risks.

 Rescue operations were still underway as of Friday, with officials urging caution and calling for stronger regulations.