By:Athuman Luchi
Helicopter crashes have been reported near Kirish, at the foot of Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County, Kenya, triggering a rescue operation in the remote area.
The incident was reported at around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, with preliminary police reports indicating that seven tourists were believed to have been on board the aircraft.
Police said the nationalities of those on board were not immediately known.
Smoke and fire were reportedly seen at the scene as local residents and rescue teams moved towards the crash site to assess the situation and assist those who may have been on board.
Authorities had not immediately confirmed the condition of the passengers or whether there were any casualties.
The exact circumstances surrounding the crash also remain unclear, and no cause has yet been established.
The crash occurred in a rugged and relatively remote part of Samburu, where difficult terrain could pose challenges for emergency responders attempting to reach the site.
Local residents have joined the rescue effort as authorities work to establish the number of people aboard, their identities and the extent of the incident.
Further details are expected as the rescue operation continues and officials provide an official assessment of the crash.