The body of a 25-year-old diver who drowned at the popular Cheploch Gorge has been recovered following a multi-day search operation that drew the attention of local authorities and the diving community.
According to officials, the body of Rodgers Kiplimo was retrieved by expert divers from the Bomet County Government after he went missing while performing a dive at the gorge.
Kiplimo reportedly disappeared on March 7 after being swept away by powerful river currents during a dive at the gorge, a site well known for its dramatic cliffs and daring diving performances by local youths.
Authorities said the incident occurred at a time when water levels had risen significantly, making the river’s flow particularly dangerous.
Kiplimo was described as a well-known and respected figure among local divers, frequently performing at Cheploch Gorge where crowds often gather to watch the daring dives into the deep waters below.
Two experienced rescue divers — Gideon Ng’otwa and Gideon Siele — were dispatched to assist in the search operation.
The pair, known for their extensive underwater rescue experience, began combing the gorge despite dangerous conditions caused by swollen waters and strong currents
Their efforts paid off when they located and recovered Kiplimo’s body, bringing a painful but long-awaited closure to his grieving family.
The search operation intensified over the weekend after earlier attempts were hindered by turbulent water conditions.
Heavy rains pounding parts of the country had caused rivers to swell, complicating the recovery mission and raising safety concerns for rescuers.
Despite the difficult conditions, the divers managed to retrieve the body in what officials described as a swift and professional operation.
Following the recovery, residents and members of the diving community expressed gratitude to Ng’otwa and Siele for their bravery and dedication.
Many also paid tribute to Kiplimo, remembering him as a talented and courageous diver who had become a familiar figure at the gorge.
The tragedy has cast a somber mood over the area, particularly because Cheploch Gorge is known not only as a natural wonder but also as a stage for daring dives performed by local youths for tourists.
The dramatic cliffs and deep waters of Cheploch Gorge have long made it a major attraction for visitors.
Tourists from across Kenya and beyond often gather at the gorge to witness the athletic skill and bravery of local divers who plunge from towering rocks into the river below.
However, during periods of heavy rainfall, the river can become extremely dangerous due to strong and unpredictable currents.
News of the recovery sparked an outpouring of sympathy online, with many Kenyans sending messages of condolence to the diver’s family.
One Facebook user, Zakayo Kimosop, wrote:
“May his soul rest in peace and his family be filled with God’s strength.”
Another user, Boniface Konga, warned others about the dangers of swollen rivers.
“Never ever swim in a flooded river. The current below is always very strong and wild,” he posted.