A Kenya Forest Service helicopter carrying five occupants, including Environment Principal Secretary Festus Ng’eno, crashed during take‑off at Kericho Golf Club on Monday, October 12.

All five people survived the impact and were taken to hospital in stable condition, as noted in the incident report released by Rift Valley Regional Police.

Footage from the scene showed emergency responders spraying water onto the wreckage, prompting questions about the purpose of the water application.

The water spray is a standard measure to prevent fire, as aviation fuel can ignite if it contacts an ignition source and a crash can rupture fuel lines or cause leaks.

Responders may also use water or foam to cool hot engine components that remain extremely hot after a crash, reducing the risk of secondary ignition.

Managing these hazards creates a safer environment for rescuers to reach occupants, provide medical assistance and evacuate them from the damaged aircraft.

After occupants were rescued and immediate fire risks addressed, authorities secured the crash site for investigators to document the wreckage and determine the cause of the accident.

Rift Valley Regional Police Commander Samwel Ndanyi confirmed the aircraft’s registration (5Y‑FSK) and reiterated that no fatalities were reported, while investigations continue.