How National Police Service Airwing rescued 5-year-old boy from floodwaters
In a remarkable display of courage and swift action, officers from the National Police Service (NPS) Airwing on Tuesday April 23 successfully rescued a five-year-old boy trapped by floods in Nduani, Yatta, Machakos County.
Mutuku Kioko was stranded by floods caused by the incessant heavy rains that have been ravaging the country.
The officers responded to the emergency on a flight from Wilson Airport and rescued the baby, who was left behind by his father Martin Kioko as the water level rose.
According to the Kenya Red Cross, they worked with the Kenyan police and successfully rescued young Kioko, who was stranded by the floodwaters.
“The child, who was visibly shaken by the ordeal after being stranded for quite some time, was safely rescued and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment,” they said.
Initially, they had used their rescue boat for the mission, but due to unfavourable conditions, the Kenya Police provided a helicopter for the rescue.
On their part, NPS said the mission was led by Captain Chief Inspector Evans Okoth, First Officer Captain Chief Inspector Loise Wangui and Flight Engineer Bernard Orimba, Superintendent of Police, who quickly flew into action from Wilson Airport.
Following the successful rescue operation, he was reunited with his family, providing a moment of immense relief in the midst of the crisis.
According to the NPS, the Airwing, under the command of Captain James Kabo, Assistant Inspector General of Police, plays a vital role in facilitating various security-related aerial operations for government agencies.
These include observation, patrolling, photography, aerial surveying and the airdropping of supplies and security equipment.
Following the rescue, the NPS expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the Deputy Governor of Machakos County, Francis Mwangangi, who is also credited with intervening on behalf of the people of Nduani by alerting Inspector General Japhet Koome to the urgent situation.
“This timely intervention underscores the commitment of both local and national authorities to protect lives and property even in the face of natural disasters,” NPS said.
The NPS stressed that the successful rescue of Kioko is a testament to the dedication and bravery of the NPS Airwing officers, whose unwavering commitment to duty ensures that no life is left behind in times of crisis.