Following increased cases of goldmines collapsing and leading to death of people in parts of Lami Nyeusi and Kambi Karaia in Pokot Central, West Pokot County, political leaders from the county now want government through the Ministry of Mining to move with speed and put an end to any unlicensed mining activities in the county. 

On Saturday March 8, 2025, two people were killed in the goldmine at Kambi Karai as four others sustained injuries during mining.

Led by former West Pokot Governor John Lonyangapuo, Sigor Mp Peter Lochakapong and West Pokot Woman rep Rael Kasiwai leaders have blamed the county government for failing to stop the illegal mining. 

Political leaders further accuse some individuals who they didn’t mention of colluding with senior officers from the national and county government in facilitating the ongoing illegal gold mining activities in Pokot Central Sub county specifically at Lami Nyeusi and Kambi Karai.

Commenting on the tragic incidents, West Pokot County Commissioner Khalif Abdullahi said investigations have commenced to establish the cause of the collapse.

“We have launched an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding these tragic accidents. We urge all miners and mine owners to prioritize safety,” he stated.

Residents have urged the county government to intervene and regulate mining activities in the region to prevent further loss of life.

As families mourn their loved ones, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in artisanal mining, a key source of income for many in the region.

This tragedy comes just months after a similar incident in December 2024, where four people were buried alive in the gold pits in the same area. 

Last week, an 18 year old woman was buried while mining gold at Korosion village along the banks of River Turkwel in West Pokot.