NAIROBI, Kenya — Authorities have released the identities of six people who died after a helicopter crashed in Mosop, Nandi County, on Saturday evening.
The aircraft, registration 5Y-D5B, went down at the Chepkieb area at about 4:45 pm shortly after take-off. Witnesses said the chopper crashed and caught fire, leaving bodies scattered alongside the wreckage.
Among those killed was Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngeno. His death was formally communicated to the National Assembly of Kenya by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
President William Ruto led the nation in mourning the lawmaker, describing him as a progressive and devoted servant of the people.
Victims Named
The pilot has been identified as George Were from Nyakach in Kisumu County.
Also confirmed dead was Amos Kipngetich Rotich, a forester and bodyguard attached to the MP. Rotich hailed from Emurua Dikirr.
Nick Koskey, a cameraman from Bomet County, was also among the victims.
Other passengers identified include Carlos Keter, a high school teacher from Emurua Dikirr, and Wycliffe Rono, an employee of the Narok County Government. Rono was also a resident of Emurua Dikirr.
Authorities said two of the bodies were burnt beyond recognition, making immediate identification difficult.
The remains were moved to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital morgue in Eldoret for preservation and formal identification procedures.
Investigation Underway
Initial reports indicate that bad weather may have contributed to the crash. However, officials stressed that investigations are ongoing and no definitive cause has been established.
“KCAA has initiated the necessary procedures to support the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID). Further details will be provided as more verified information becomes available,” the Authority said in a statement.
The probe will be conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department in line with civil aviation safety regulations.
KCAA Director General Emile Arao conveyed condolences to the affected families.
“The Authority extends its sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected,” Arao said.
Safety and Accountability
Under Kenya’s Civil Aviation Act and international aviation protocols, accident investigations aim to determine cause and prevent recurrence rather than assign blame.
As forensic and technical assessments continue, families await official confirmation of identification and answers on what led to the tragic crash that claimed six lives in Nandi County.
