One person has died and several others are feared trapped after a quarry collapsed at Mutonga in Imenti South, Meru County, with rescue operations ongoing at the scene.
Igoji East Chief Eva Nkatha confirmed that one body had been recovered as emergency teams continued searching for people who may be trapped beneath the rubble.
The chief also said some victims sustained injuries during the incident and were receiving medical treatment.
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Rescue teams remained at the site, working to reach areas where additional victims were feared trapped. Authorities had yet to establish the exact number of people affected as efforts continued to account for everyone who may have been caught in the collapse.
The circumstances surrounding the incident were also yet to be determined, with authorities expected to investigate the cause.
The collapse has renewed concerns about safety at quarry sites, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Heavy rain can weaken soil, loosen rocks and destabilise quarry walls, potentially increasing the risk of collapses and falling debris. However, authorities had not confirmed whether rainfall contributed to the Mutonga incident.
Local residents have urged members of the public to exercise caution around quarry sites, warning that unstable ground conditions can pose risks to workers and people living nearby.
The incident has also renewed calls for stricter enforcement of quarry safety measures, including regular assessments of ground stability and adequate precautions to protect workers and members of the public.
Residents remained anxious as rescue teams continued their search at Mutonga River Stone Quarry, awaiting confirmation of the fate of those still feared trapped.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the operation progresses and more information about the incident becomes available.
