A light aircraft carrying 12 people has crashed in the Tsimba-Matuga area of Kwale County, Kenya, early Tuesday morning.
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) confirmed the tragic accident, identifying the plane as registration number 5Y-CCA.
According to KCAA Director General Emile Arao, the aircraft was en route from Diani to Kichwa Tembo in Maasai Mara when it went down.
Arao said the plane, reportedly carrying tourists, lost contact with air traffic control shortly before the crash.
A reporter speaking to Citizen TV revealed that the plane burst into flames immediately after impact.
Photos from the scene showed scattered debris and burning wreckage strewn across the crash site.
Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud explosion followed by thick plumes of smoke rising from the forested area.
Rescue teams, including security officers and emergency responders, have since arrived at the site.
However, poor weather conditions are slowing down ongoing rescue and recovery operations.
Officials from the Kwale County government and the Kenya Red Cross have joined efforts to assess the situation.
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that adverse weather or mechanical failure may have played a role, though authorities have yet to release an official statement.
The number of survivors, if any, remains unclear as rescue efforts continue.
The tragic incident has sent shockwaves across the country, with many Kenyans expressing concern and prayers for the victims.
Local leaders have urged the public to avoid speculation until verified details are released.
The government is expected to issue an official update later today.
More details are expected as authorities complete recovery operations and begin identification of passengers.