Kenya’s Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has confirmed that an aircraft carrying 12 people has crashed in the Kwale region along the country’s southern coast.

In a brief statement released Tuesday, the KCAA said it had launched an emergency response operation in coordination with local authorities and rescue services. Details on casualties or survivors have not yet been made public.

“An aircraft accident has occurred in Kwale County with 12 people on board. Rescue operations are currently underway, and further updates will be provided as soon as possible,” the aviation authority said.

The cause of the crash has not yet been determined. The KCAA said an investigation team from the Air Accident Investigation Department has been dispatched to the site to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Kwale County, located near the Indian Ocean coastline, is known for its dense forests and hilly terrain, which can pose challenges for flight navigation and rescue efforts.