Africa-Press – Kenya. KDF and police have deployed sniffer dogs to areas affected by mudslides in Kerio Valley to help in the search and rescue operation in the area. A KDF chopper airlifted three sniffer dogs amid reports that there could be survivors in difficult situations within the affected areas.
The sniffer dogs will help in the search for any bodies that may be stuck in the mudslide areas, most of which are inaccessible. CS for Interior Kipchumba Murkomen has also directed the deployment of NYS personnel to help in the operations, including assisting the displaced families.
Elgeyo Marakwet governor Wisley Rotich has said the search and rescue operation has been going on for the third day now. “The county is also still working on opening up of roads in the area so that we ease access and ability to reach all those affected,” Rotich said.
He said the impact of the mudslides was heavy and that it would take time before the operation is completed. The government has taken over all costs of the operation, including treatment of the injured, burials and resettlement of the displaced.
Government spokesman Isaac Mwaura says President Ruto had directed that the multi-agency team in the area operate until all the missing people are accounted for. An aerial view of the devastated region shows massive destruction across more than ten villages in three wards.
Authorities estimate that over 800 families have been affected, most of them displaced, after the mudslides claimed at least 26 lives and left more than 30 others injured.
The worst-hit villages include Kamogo, Mkeno, Moror, Murkutwo, Chesongoch, Chechan, Kabetwo, Mogil, and Kepkener, located within Embobut, Sambirir, Endo, and Ariti wards.
Embobut MCA Paul Kipyatich said the extent of the destruction was overwhelming. “We have been devastated as a community, and the loss is massive. We thank the national government and everyone who came to our aid,” he said.
Residents described the tragedy as unprecedented, saying it will take years to recover. “Death visited us viciously, and it will take quite a long time to recover,” Janet Jebet, a resident who lost her property and livestock, said.
Many families have been left homeless and are now relying on humanitarian aid as government and rescue teams continue with search and recovery efforts.
The Kenya Red Cross has also deployed hundreds of aid workers to help in the search and rescue missions in the region. Dr Phillip Cheptinga who has been coordinating medical assistance to those injured says most of them are in stable condition under treatment at MTRH.
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