By S, KNA
A double tragedy struck Tagwa village, Kieni East, after a diver attempting to retrieve the body of a man who drowned in a flooded quarry also lost his life.
According to area Chief George Muturi, residents spotted the body of 65-year-old Samuel Kabiru inside the quarry at around 4 pm on Wednesday. Kabiru, a retired police officer and father of five, had reportedly left a suicide note and bequeathed his property to his family prior to the incident, raising concerns of a possible premeditated act.
Police officers from Chaka Police Station, located approximately 20 kilometers from the scene, arrived at the abandoned quarry and found Kabiru submerged in the water. During the rescue attempt, 18-year-old diver Solomon Maina tragically drowned while trying to retrieve the body.
Muturi said authorities are awaiting the arrival of the County Emergency Rescue team to assist in recovering the bodies while investigations into the incident continue.
Thegu River Ward MCA Wachira wa Kanyi described the events as a harrowing tragedy and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
“I learnt about the incident around 5 pm yesterday and went to the scene where rescue efforts were underway. By the time I arrived, dozens of residents had gathered as officials worked to pull out the bodies,” he said.
The lawmaker added that despite community efforts, they were unable to retrieve the bodies. “We tried to save the situation together with government officials but lost the fight. There are two bodies in the dam, and we hope trained divers will arrive soon to recover them so the families can find peace,” he said.
The incident has cast a shadow over Tagwa village, leaving residents grieving the loss of both Kabiru and Maina in a single heartbreaking event.