Deadly Clash at Moyale Gold Mine: Two Killed and Rifles Stolen
Violent Clash at Gold Mine
A deadly shootout erupted at the Walikiti gold mining site in Dabel, Moyale, Marsabit County, on Friday. The violence resulted in two fatalities, including a police officer. Several others sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Details of the Incident
Marsabit County Commissioner James Kamau confirmed the deaths. According to the police, around 3,000 people breached security at the gold site. They overpowered the police, forcing their way into the area.
Initially, the intruders began hurling stones at the officers, who managed to repel the attack. However, the locals regrouped and launched a second assault armed with crude weapons. This time, they attacked the officers again and invaded the site.
Attack on Police Officers
The attackers fired at the police, who responded in kind. Despite their efforts, the officers were overwhelmed as attackers surrounded them from all directions. The police report detailed that several officers sustained injuries during the confrontation.
The attackers stole two G3 rifles and 40 rounds of live ammunition from the deceased officer and another severely injured colleague.
Response from Authorities
Detectives from the DCI in Moyale arrived at the scene to conduct an analysis and document the incident. They transported the bodies to Moyale Sub-County Hospital for a postmortem examination.
This incident raises the total number of casualties at the Dabel gold site to 23.
Background on Mining Site
Earlier this year, then-Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki ordered the closure of the Dabel Artisanal Mining sites due to security concerns. The government declared the area dangerous, issuing a vacation order through a Kenya Gazette notice.
Despite these orders, the area has remained operational. Reports surfaced alleging that police officers were involved in illegal gold mining activities, though security agencies have denied these claims.
Recent Developments
Last week, Marsabit Governor Mohamud Ali addressed the situation in Moyale. He confirmed his involvement in the transfer of the county commissioner and the county police commandant due to local complaints.
Government’s New Plan
Currently, the government is devising a plan to register locals into various cooperative societies to manage the mining site effectively. Moyale DCC Benedict Munyoki urged locals to register promptly.
He said, “We ask the locals to register quickly, give us time, and cooperate as we finalize plans to reopen the site.”
