At least four artisanal miners died after a gold mine collapsed at Kambi Karaya mining site in Pokot Central, West Pokot County.

This is the latest such incident to happen in the area. A similar incident happened there last week where five miners were killed.

According to the police, the incident was reported at about 6:01pm on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 after a local informed police that six miners were suspected to have been trapped underground.

Police responded to the scene as rescue efforts were underway.

Four bodies were eventually retrieved from the collapsed mine, while one miner was rescued alive and rushed to hospital in critical condition. The identity of the survivor was not immediately established.

The deceased were identified as 25-year-old Hillary Bowon, Chepkosang, Chepo Cherru and Kama Cheruto, police said.

The bodies were taken to the Kapenguria mortuary pending autopsy as investigations into the incident continue.

Such incidents have been on the rise amid efforts to address the menace. They have happened in Migori, Narok, Nandi, Kakamega, Siaya and Marsabit Counties where there are gold deposits.

Miners venture into tunnels for the deposits to make a living.

Most miners lack protective equipment to enhance their work.

Officials have been running a campaign to address the menace which is rampant in Migori, Kakamega, Siaya and West Pokot Counties.

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has been leading in the campaign for safe mining of the minerals in several parts of the country amid a surge in the deaths.

Police say most of the deaths are under probe while others have been solved.

A special police squad has been created to focus on the mining sector.