[PHOTOS] 30 remain missing as rescue mission continues in Elgeyo Marakwet mudslide

Rescue operations are still ongoing after at least 15 people were confirmed dead and 30 others remain missing following a landslide in Marakwet East.

In a statement, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said they have also managed to evacuate 25 injured people for further medical attention.

"Sadly, 15 people lost their lives in this unfortunate tragedy, while 30 people are still unaccounted for," he said.

Ongoing search and rescue efforts are being undertaken by a multi-agency team comprising the military, police, NGAOs, the county government and humanitarian organisations.

"We have moved households at risk of landslides to safer grounds and opened a desk for reporting missing persons.”

Elgeyo Marakwet County was hit by devastating landslides in Endo, Sambirir, and Embobut Wards, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and damage to infrastructure, including roads.

Murkomen expressed his condolences, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Endo, Sambirir, and Embobut Wards in Marakwet East Constituency following the devastating landslide that has led to the loss of lives and property, as well as the destruction of infrastructure, including the road network.”

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen oversees the evacuation of victims to board an evacuation helicopter in Chesongoch, Marakwet East, as rescue and relief operations continue following the Elgeyo Marakwet landslide/HANDOUT 

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen addresses residents after the landslide at Chesongoch, Marakwet East/HANDOUT 

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen talking to KDF officers and other officials overseeing the evacuation of landslide victims in Chesongoch, Marakwet East/HANDOUT 

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has a word with KDF officers and other officials overseeing the evacuation of landslide victims in Chesongoch, Marakwet East/HANDOUT