Tragedy struck Uradi village in Siaya County on Monday evening, August 26, when a gold mine shaft collapsed, resulting in the death of a 32-year-old woman,
The woman identified by police as Rosemary Anyango, was reportedly mining with four other women when the shaft suddenly gave way, trapping her at the deepest end while the others managed to escape with minor injuries.
Witnesses reported that a 20-year-old man identified as Brandon Omondi was injured while attempting to rescue the trapped woman.
He suffered injuries to his lower limbs and was taken to Siaya County Referral Hospital for treatment before being discharged.
Assistant Chief Grace Otieno while speaking to the press, confirmed the incident and said that the deceased’s body was later recovered and taken to the Siaya County Referral Hospital mortuary for preservation pending a postmortem examination.
Miners Are Urged to Exercise Caution During the Rainy Season
She cautioned the local miners on the dangers of mining especially during the rainy season and urged them to remain vigilant as the shafts have become weak and prone to collapse.
Also Read: Seven Killed After Collapse of Gold Mine in Siaya
This tragic incident is not an isolated case in the region, highlighting the urgent need for stakeholders to intervene and find safer mining methods for the poor Kenyans who risk their lives daily to support their families.
Regional mining officer Ben Bera in a past interview in July 2024 attributed the frequent mine collapses in the area to artisanal miners’ disregard for safety protocols.
“Many artisanal miners do not follow the necessary safety guidelines, which leads to these tragic accidents. We must enforce stricter regulations to ensure the safety of our miners,” he said.
Another Gold Mine Collapse in Siaya
His remarks came after another mine collapse incident occurred in the region, which resulted in the tragic death of seven miners.
The incident occurred on July 2, in Lumba village, Central Asembo, where a mine shaft caved in trapping 11 miners.
Also Read: Police Officer Among Two Killed in Fierce Gunfight at Gold Mine
Rescue operations successfully saved four miners who sustained critical injuries, while the remaining seven tragically lost their lives.
Siaya County police boss Cleti Kimaiyo confirmed the incident and said those who escaped were rushed to the Hospital for medical attention.
“Four people who survived the accident were rushed to Bondo Sub- County Hospital while the bodies of the dead miners were taken by police to Bondo Sub-County Hospital mortuary for post-mortem,” he said.
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