16 people feared dead in West Pokot landslides

A section of a road that was swept away after heavy rains in West Pokot. At least 15 people are feared dead. PHOTO | OSCAR KAKAI | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • 12 bodies recovered.
  • Bodies of seven children among those recovered.
  • Officials say rescue efforts underway to find missing people.

At least 16 people, including children, are feared dead after their houses were swept away Saturday in landslides caused by heavy rain in West Pokot, officials said.

Joel Bulal, a local administrator, told the Nation that at least 12 people were buried alive in Nyarkulian village and four others in Parua village.

Pokot South Deputy County Commissioner Fredrick Kimanga said 12 bodies were recovered by Saturday midmorning.

Mr Kimanga said bodies of seven children were among those recovered.

Mr Bulal said rescue efforts were underway Saturday morning to find missing people.

The Red Cross said its personnel have responded to the emergency.

More follows.