A tragic quarry accident occurred on Tuesday, 19 August 2025, in Kapken sub-location, Koiwa, claiming the life of a young man and seriously injuring two others. The incident took place around 12:45 p.m.
The alarm was raised by Koiwa Location Chief Emily Chepngeno via phone, prompting a swift response from emergency services. The rescue operation was led by the Sub-County Police Commander, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) team, the Sub-County Administration Police Commander from Konoin, along with the Bomet County Disaster Response Unit and the Kenya Red Cross.
Upon arrival, authorities found that three individuals had been harvesting sand when the quarry walls collapsed. Ian Kiplagat Kirui, aged 19, was tragically buried alive. His body was later retrieved, having succumbed to injuries inflicted by falling rocks and sand.
The two survivors—Paul Langat (40) and Dennis Kipkemoi (18)—suffered serious bodily injuries. Both were rescued and rushed to Longisa Level 5 Hospital for urgent medical care.
The scene was documented and photographed by investigators. Kirui’s body was moved to Kapkatet Hospital Mortuary, where a postmortem examination is pending.
Bomet County Police Commander Edward Imbwaga confirmed the incident and stated that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations in Konoin is handling the case.
Authorities have urged residents to exercise caution around quarry sites, especially during unstable weather conditions that may compromise structural integrity.
