Family's agony as drowned man yet to be found

River Chepkulo in Kuresoi, Nakuru. [Kennedy Gachuhi, Standard]

A family in Kuresoi South, Nakuru County, is in agony following a fruitless search for the body of their kin, who drowned while trying to cross River Chepkulo nine days ago. 

Westley Langat, a father of four, was on his way home on the fateful day.

Yesterday, area Member of Parliament Joseph Tanui ferried a team of divers from the neighbouring constituency, who were later joined by a team from the Kenya Red Cross Society to help in the search.

"We have also asked for more help from the county government,” said Mr Tanui.

His wife Lilian Langat said the family learnt about the incident from residents who saw him trip and fall into the river. Those present tried to rescue him in vain.

She described her husband as a hardworking man who went out of his way to provide for the family. 

“Our first born is in Form One, while the last born is barely two-and-a-half years. I am a stay at home mum; without him we are helpless. I don't know where to begin," she said.

Lilian said she has accepted that her husband could be dead wherever he is and urged the county to hasten the search for his body. 

"My prayer is for his body to be recovered soon so that we can give him a befitting sendoff. It has been very painful for me and our children,” she said.