By Ngw’ono Bw’Otwere
Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has officially released detailed information following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of Emur Dikirr Member of Parliament Johana Ngeno.
In addition to MP Ngeno, the crash also resulted in the deaths of the pilot, George Were, as well as passengers including Amos Kipngetich Rotich and Nick Koskei.
The incident occurred in Chepkiep, Mosop Constituency, Nandi County.
According to the statement issued on Sunday, the helicopter, registered as 5Y-DSB, vanished from radar shortly after departing Tabolwa on Saturday afternoon.
Its last recorded coordinates were 0°23’25″N, 34°59’51″E.
Preliminary flight data provided by the Ministry outlines the aircraft’s movements throughout the day: it departed Wilson Airport at 11:04 a.m. and made several stops, including Emur Dikirr, Mararianta, Endebes (twice), Eldoret Airstrip, and finally Tabolwa, where it landed at 4:20 p.m.
The helicopter took off again at 4:25 p.m. from Tabolwa, only to disappear from radar one minute later at 4:26 p.m.
The government’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID), operating under the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, reached the crash site on Saturday and has begun its probe.
In accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13 requirements, Kenya has formally notified the state of manufacture and design of the aircraft, along with ICAO itself.
A preliminary report is anticipated within the next 30 days, according to the CS.
Chirchir expressed “deep condolences on behalf of the Ministry of Roads and Transport” and his own family, calling the loss a national tragedy.
He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to aviation safety and appealed for public patience while the investigation proceeds.
Further, the government urged citizens to refrain from speculation and to await the official findings from the ongoing inquiry.
