Four people killed, 5 others injured after gold mine collapses in West Pokot

Four people have been confirmed dead and five others injured after a gold mine collapsed early Saturday morning in Karon village, West Pokot County.

West Pokot Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner Wycliffe Munanda confirmed the incident, saying the miners had entered the pit at around 3am when it suddenly caved in, burying them beneath the debris.

“Nine individuals were inside the pit when it collapsed. The five survivors have been taken to Kapenguria County Referral Hospital for treatment. Sadly, four—three men and one woman—died and their bodies have been moved to the hospital mortuary for post-mortem,” Munanda said.

He added that the miners had returned to the site at night using manual tools, unaware that the soil had loosened earlier after daytime excavation work by machinery.

“They were using picks and hoes at night, not realizing the ground had become unstable. Fortunately, we have accounted for everyone who was trapped—no one is missing,” he added.

The incident has sparked renewed concerns about the safety of mining operations in the region.

West Pokot County Commissioner Abdullahi Khalif condemned some local leaders for allegedly inciting residents against police officers who had responded to the emergency.

“Certain leaders are misleading the public and turning them against law enforcement. Mining must be handled responsibly, and leaders must familiarize themselves with the laws governing this sector,” Khalif stated.

He assured residents that the national government is actively engaging with the Ministry of Mining to address ongoing challenges.

“I’m in contact with the relevant ministry, and before the end of this month, officials will visit the county to assess the situation and provide solutions,” he said.

Khalif noted that three mining sites have since been shut down following the tragedy and pledged that the government is collaborating with key stakeholders to prevent further loss of life.

West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin expressed his sorrow over the incident and extended his condolences to the affected families.

“This is a heartbreaking moment for our county. I send my deepest sympathies to the families who lost their loved ones and wish a swift recovery to those injured. We must come together to improve safety standards in mining areas and protect our people,” said Governor Kachapin.

Pokot South MP David Pkosing also mourned the victims and criticized fellow leaders for allegedly undermining safe mining practices.

“This is a tragic loss. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families affected,” said Pkosing.

“Just last week, irresponsible politicians forced the shutdown of machines that were ensuring safer mining practices in Turkwel. Now, families are forced to mine in dangerous conditions because of those same leaders.”