Two Moi University students drown at a quarry near the main campus
The entrance to Moi University's main campus in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County on February 8, 2024.
A swimming retreat by Moi University students at a local quarry turned tragic after two of them drowned on Monday.
The afternoon tragedy happened at an open quarry popularly known as Oxford Quarry near the university’s main campus in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County.
Two survivors are receiving medical attention at an Eldoret hospital where they were rushed in critical condition, Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi confirmed to Nation.Africa.
The deceased male students were in a group of four who had gone to unwind at the quarry following the long closure of the university last month due to striking staff.
The four were swimming together, and only two were rescued by local divers.
The county police boss said police have launched investigations into the incident.
The bodies of the two who perished were retrieved by local divers and moved to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Eldoret mortuary.
Mr Mwanthi urged students to avoid dangerous picnics as they wait for the re-opening of the university.
“Such accidents could have been avoided if the students had exercised caution. My request to students is to avoid dangerous areas for their own safety. Safety starts with you,” he stated.
In 2019, a Moi University student drowned at a swimming pool at an Eldoret hotel.
