Authorities in Kenya have reported a plane crash in the coastal region of Kwale, where 12 individuals are feared to have lost their lives.

The small aircraft went down earlier today en route to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The incident occurred in a mountainous area approximately 25 miles away from Diani airstrip, according to officials.

Stephen Orinde, the Kwale County Commissioner, informed The Associated Press that all passengers were believed to be foreign tourists, with their nationalities to be confirmed later. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.

The distinction between crew members and passengers remains unclear at this point. The plane is said to have gone down shortly after takeoff, catching fire and resulting in a charred wreckage at the crash site, as per authorities.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion and discovering unidentifiable human remains upon arrival at the scene. Mombasa Air Safari, the airline involved, stated that it is cooperating with the civil aviation authorities and will provide updates on the incident as directed by the regulatory body.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve is a renowned tourist attraction known for the annual migration of wildebeests from Tanzania’s Serengeti region.