Three of Seven Drowning Victims Recovered from River Muuoni

Makindu, Kenya – Three bodies have been recovered following a tragic incident where seven individuals drowned in River Muuoni on Thursday night. The recovery was made 100 kilometers from where the incident occurred. Among the victims were Agnes Munyao (60), Rodah Kimunduu (60), and Mwikali Ndunga (60), whose bodies were located in different areas along the river.

According to Kenya News Agency, the victims, who had been attending an event in Nairobi, refused assistance before being swept away by rising water levels. “We tried twice to rescue the seven people who were holding hands together, but each time they refused. While they were in the middle of the crossing point, the raging waters increased and swept them away,” Maweu reported to the media.

The ongoing rescue mission, coordinated by Red Cross County Coordinator Evans Peter, involves the Makueni County Fire, the National Drought Management Authority, and the National Administration, among others. Nzaui Subcounty Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Mr. Timothy Tirop, speaking to the media at the scene, confirmed the recovery of the bodies and provided details on their transport to local medical facilities. He also issued a warning about the dangers of crossing flooded rivers during the rainy season.

At the time of reporting, Esther Mutaiti (60), Emma Mulei (30), Dorcas Mutuku (30), and Jimmy Nguku (60) were still missing. The scene of the incident was crowded with stranded travelers and students from local schools, who were forced to find alternative means to cross the river or wait for the water levels to subside. Some pedestrians resorted to being carried across the river for a fee.