Nandet Village, Uasin Gishu County – A somber mood has engulfed residents of Nandet Farm in Kapchebii Village, Cheptiret-Kipchamo Ward, following the tragic drowning of 35-year-old Protas Marindich in a local dam.
The heartbreaking incident occurred on Sunday, when Marindich, a father of two, slipped and fell into the dam while bathing. Despite immediate rescue efforts by locals, his body was not recovered until Monday morning, when the Uasin Gishu County Fire Brigade, led by Chief Fire Officer David Sitati, successfully retrieved it after a coordinated search.
Tragic Accident Shakes Local Community
According to Area Assistant Chief Truphena Rugut, the unfortunate event unfolded under tragic circumstances, with Marindich reportedly losing his footing on a slippery surface near the water’s edge. The dam, located on private property in Nandet, posed significant challenges for the rescue team due to its muddy and unstable conditions.
Local residents responded swiftly to the distress, organizing an overnight search, but their efforts were hampered by the dam’s depth and terrain.
Emergency Response and Condolences
Chief Fire Officer David Sitati, speaking after the recovery operation, extended his condolences to the bereaved family and commended his team’s commitment under difficult circumstances.
“It is unfortunate that we’ve lost a life. The dam’s conditions made the operation difficult, but I commend the team for their persistence,” Sitati remarked.
The body was later transported to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) mortuary by officers from Cheptiret Police Station for preservation and further examination.
Safety Warnings Issued Amid Rainy Season
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Sitati urged residents to avoid swimming or bathing in local dams and swamps, especially during the rainy season, when slippery surfaces and rising water levels significantly increase the risk of drowning.
“We urge residents to avoid such areas to prevent further loss of life,” he emphasized.
Local leaders and members of the Marindich family echoed this call, encouraging the community to prioritize safety and educate others on the dangers posed by natural and artificial water bodies in the region.
A Community in Mourning
As Nandet Village mourns the loss of one of its own, calls for heightened public awareness and preventive action continue to grow. The tragic passing of Protas Marindich serves as a sobering reminder of the hidden dangers present in our everyday environments—and the importance of vigilance, especially during the rainy season.
