- Six miners lost their lives, and ten others were seriously injured when an illegal goldmine at Hillo Dabel in Marsabit County collapsed on December 9, 2024
- Despite the government’s ban and police security guarding the site, the miners had sneaked in to extract gold when the tunnel caved in
- Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho, now under pressure, led a security operation to investigate the tragedy, amid allegations of official complicity
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja Kirocho is facing mounting pressure following the tragic collapse of an illegal goldmine in Marsabit County, which claimed the lives of six miners and left ten others seriously injured.
The incident occurred on Monday, December 9, at the notorious Hillo Dabel site, despite a government ban and police security meant to keep miners out.
The disaster has thrown a spotlight on the ongoing illegal mining activities in the region, with many questioning how miners managed to access the closed site.
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Reports suggest that residents had long raised complaints about illegal mining operations allegedly backed by local officials, even after the site was flagged as a high-risk zone earlier this year.
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In a swift response, the IG led a high-profile security operation on Wednesday, surveying the Hillo goldmine to uncover how the miners bypassed security measures.
The site had been under police guard since a government directive in March ordered its closure, citing safety and security concerns stemming from violent community clashes over control of the lucrative gold reserves.
Tragically, the miners had reportedly sneaked into the site to extract gold when the tunnel they were working in caved in, burying them under tons of rubble.
Emergency teams launched a frantic rescue mission, pulling out survivors who were rushed to Moyale Hospital for treatment.
The incident has reignited debate over the enforcement of mining regulations and the safety of workers in the unregulated sector.
Marsabit’s gold mines have become a double-edged sword, offering economic opportunities while fueling insecurity and illegal activity.
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In March, the government issued a gazette notice shutting down several mines in the area, including the infamous Hillo site, after community disputes over mine control led to 11 deaths.
While discussions are reportedly ongoing to reopen the mines under proper licensing and safety frameworks, critics argue that enforcement mechanisms remain weak.
The tragedy has placed Inspector General Kanja under intense scrutiny, with many questioning the role of law enforcement in preventing such illegal operations.
