DNK International A 21-year-old woman has died after reportedly suffocating inside a gold mining shaft in Lirhembe, Kakamega County.
According to local sources, the victim is suspected to have succumbed to a lack of oxygen and the presence of toxic gases while working inside the mine. Two of her colleagues were rescued from the mining cave and rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
The incident has once again highlighted safety concerns in artisanal mining operations in the region. Residents are now calling on authorities to provide miners with basic safety training and equipment to help reduce the frequent fatalities reported in mining sites.
Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
PHOTOS/Courtesy
[DNK-International | June 4, 2026]
