Two dead after mining shaft collapses in Siaya

The four miners were inside the gold mining shaft for their routine activities when it collapsed and trapped them underground.

According to a police incident report, rescue operations led by local authorities and community members resulted in the successful retrieval of Evans Mbogo and Walter Nyaoko Okech, both of whom were rushed to the nearby health facility for treatment.

However, the bodies of Dickson Odongo (30) and Michael Oduor (23), were recovered hours later. Odongo’s body was retrieved at around 3:15 a.m., while Oduor was recovered at 5:45 a.m.

Authorities say that the rescue operation was hampered by the fragile condition of the mine’s structure, which continued to collapse during the night.

As a result of the tragedy, local administrators have suspended all mining activities in Rera Sub-location until the end of the rainy season.

During that period, a comprehensive inspection of all mining sites will be conducted to ensure compliance with safety standards before operations resume.

Additionally, a community meeting is scheduled to promote mining safety awareness, and improve emergency preparedness.