Police chopper experiences fault during take-off in landslide rescue mission
There was panic in Elgeyo Marakwet after a police rescue helicopter developed a mechanical fault while airlifting four Elgeyo Marakwet mudslide victims.
The aircraft, which had just taken off, was seen in a video on Monday, November 3, 2025, struggling to gain height before coming down and landing on its back tyres moments later.
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The helicopter had lifted off smoothly but experienced a problem seconds after take-off, forcing the pilot to bring it down. No injuries were reported. The incident happened during an ongoing rescue operation following deadly mudslides that have hit several parts of Marakwet due to heavy rains.
The helicopter was among several aircraft deployed to assist multi-agency rescue teams working to move survivors and bodies from affected areas that are difficult to access by road.
Also watch: Government intensifies rescue operations in Marakwet as landslides claim 25 lives.
Multi-Agency teams lead rescue efforts
The rescue operations are being coordinated by teams from the Ministries of Interior and of Public Service, alongside the County Governments of Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, and Nandi.
Other agencies involved include the Kenya Defence Forces, the National Police Service, the National Youth Service, the National Disaster Operations Centre, the Kenya Red Cross Society, and the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH).
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen had earlier expressed his condolences to families affected by the ongoing landslides and rockfalls in the region. He also urged residents living in high-risk areas to remain alert and take precautions as heavy rains continue.
Murkomen said the government is working to provide assistance and ensure all affected families receive help.
“We continue to call on residents in the region to be aware of their surroundings and to report any signs of earth movements to local authorities,” he stated.
The rains have caused widespread destruction, especially in Chesongoch and parts of Keiyo North, where several deaths have been confirmed. The Interior Ministry has maintained that rescue efforts will continue until all missing persons are accounted for.
As emergency teams battle harsh weather and unstable terrain, authorities have renewed calls for people in landslide-prone areas to evacuate immediately. The government says early reporting and preparedness remain key in saving lives as heavy rains persist across the region.
