Gov’t Demands Answers After Kenyan Aircraft is Shot Down in Somalia

Kenya has written to the Somali government demanding answers after a Kenyan-registered plane was reportedly shot down in Somalia on Monday, May 4th. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through a statement on Tuesday, May 5th, said Kenya has asked Somalia to probe the circumstances leading to the shooting down of the light cargo aircraft in Bardale, killing all six people on board.

The ministry indicated that the aircraft has been supporting humanitarian operations during the Covid-19 pandemic and has urged other planes operating in the region to be cautious in light of the incident.

“Kenyan and other humanitarian aircraft operating in the region are also urged to enhance extra precaution in light of the unclear circumstances surrounding the incident,” the ministry said.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs working with other Agencies shall keenly monitor the investigation of this tragic incident and will collaborate with all to bring closure and resolution to the incident.”

Reports indicate the Embraer 120 aircraft operated by Africa Express had been hired by a humanitarian organization to ferry medicine and medical equipment from Baidoa to Bardale.

All the six people aboard the plane, including two Kenyan pilots, an engineer, and crew members, died in the crash. The two Kenyans have been identified as Captain Mabruk Islam Sherman and Omar Chiraghdin from Mombasa.

The aircraft had been operating in Somalia since the beginning of March 2020, according to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).

KCAA Director-General Capt. Gilbert Kibe said Africa Express’ operations officer confirmed they lost contact with the aircraft at 4:20 pm on Monday.

Sources said the plane was about to land in Bardale town when it was hit by a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG).