Kamariny: A somber mood has engulfed residents of Kamariny Ward in Keiyo North Sub-County after a six-year-old child drowned in an abandoned cattle dip within the Kiptabus area. The minor, identified as Darius Kiptigei, is reported to have gone missing on Sunday evening and his body was discovered the following day.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kamariny Ward Assistant County Commissioner Adrian Kilot confirmed the incident, stating that a report was received from the Chief of Kiptabus location regarding the incident at Katalel cattle dip. Police officers responded promptly, and the body of the child was found at the scene. Kilot added that officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had launched investigations into the circumstances of the tragedy and urged members of the public to remain calm as investigations are ongoing.
The child’s grandfather, Wilson Kiptigei, shared that the family had reported the disappearance to the police after Darius failed to return home on Sunday evening. He expressed heartbreak over finding the child dead in the cattle dip. The grieving grandfather called on the county government to secure the area, highlighting the risks posed by both the cattle dip and a nearby dam. He suggested that the Kapterit cattle dip and the adjacent dam be fenced off and fitted with a gate, emphasizing the need for enhanced security as children frequently access the area and many residents use the dam for fishing.
Additionally, Michael Kipkosgei, a former worker at the cattle dip, revealed that the facility had previously been secured and that during his ten-year tenure, children never ventured into the area. He urged the county government to permanently seal off the cattle dip, noting its current disuse and potential danger as it is predominantly accessed by children.
Police have since taken the body to Iten County Referral Hospital mortuary as investigations continue.
