Pilot In Fatal Nandi Helicopter Crash Identfied

By Janet Chepkurui

The pilot of the ill-fated helicopter that killed Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno and five others has been identified as George Were from Nyakach, Kisumu County.

The aircraft, registration 5Y-D5B, crashed at Chepkieb in Mosop, Nandi County, at about 4.45pm on Saturday shortly after take-off, killing all six on board.

The aircraft, an Eurocopter 350, is operated by Youth Aviation Ltd, had departed Wilson Airport in Nairobi at 11.02 am.

Nandi County Police Commander Samuel Mukuusi said officers responded after an alert from the area chief and found bodies scattered at the scene.

“We received the report and rushed to the scene. All six occupants were confirmed dead,” Mr Mukuusi said.

Also killed were Amos Kipngetich Rotich, the MP’s bodyguard, Nick Koskey, Carlos Keter and Wycliffe Rono, all from Emurua Dikirr and neighbouring counties.

Police said two bodies were burnt beyond recognition. The remains were moved to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital morgue in Eldoret.

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority said the helicopter was flying from Endebes to Mosoriot and investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.

“The Authority has commenced investigations in accordance with aviation regulations to establish the circumstances of the accident,” KCAA said.