An aircraft crash landed on Friday in Malindi County, Kenya, killing three people on ground, according to a local police authority.
The casualties included a motorcycle taxi operator who perished when the aircraft ignited upon impact in Kwachocha town along the Malindi-Mombasa highway, as reported by Sub-County Police Commander Lucky Joski Mudavadi, AP news agency reported.
The other two victims, a motorcyclist and their female passenger, lost their lives when detached aircraft components from the wings and tail struck them as the plane collided with a structure.
The aircraft’s occupants, including one pilot and two students, received medical attention for injuries sustained after evacuating the plane prior to impact. Authorities initiated an investigation into the incident’s cause.
The incident site, Kwachocha, adjoins Malindi airport, where residents are engaged in legal proceedings regarding airport expansion plans and pending land compensation matters.
Local county assembly representative Rashid Odhiambo spoke to the press, emphasising the importance of enhanced safety measures around the airport facility.
“Those involved in the airport management should keep ensuring safety around the airport and not just concentrate on inside the airport,” he said.
