Multi agency team rescues stranded hiker who fell into Mt Longonot crater in 24-hour mission

A dramatic rescue mission unfolded at Mt. Longonot on Saturday after a visitor, identified as Bildad Simiyu, slipped and fell into the volcano’s steep crater.

Simiyu landed on a narrow rock ledge deep inside the crater, leaving him stranded and out of reach as daylight faded.

According to the Kenya Wildlife Service, officers immediately responded to the distress call but quickly realised that reaching him before nightfall would be too dangerous. With the terrain becoming more treacherous in the dark, rescuers made the difficult decision to hold off the extraction until morning.

“We stayed at the crater rim, kept talking to him, reassured him, and monitored his condition throughout the night,” KWS said in a Facebook post.

“As darkness fell and extraction became too risky, our team maintained communication and ensured his safety until rescue efforts could continue at first light,” the agency continued.

At first light on Sunday, a coordinated multi-agency operation swung back into action.

KWS officers were joined by the Kenya Red Cross, Nakuru County Fire Brigade, Kenya Police, and medics from ITARC Hospital.

The team descended cautiously into the crater using ropes and specialised climbing equipment as they navigated the unstable volcanic surfaces.

The rescue took several tense hours, with each step requiring precision to avoid dislodging rocks causing further injury.

By around 1500hrs, the teams successfully reached Simiyu, secured him, and lifted him out of the crater to safety, after which he was immediately stabilised and transported to Naivasha County Referral Hospital after sustaining a fracture on his left leg.

KWS commended all officers and partner agencies involved for their professionalism, teamwork, and unwavering dedication under extremely challenging conditions. “We thank all the officers and partner agencies involved for their teamwork, professionalism and dedication,” the service said.

The news was equally well received on social media, where other Kenyans had been rallying for Bildad's rescue. 

"The crater walls are so steep and deep. Infact seeing a human being inside there is beyond impossible. I was there for a hike yesterday but the sight is scary. For the brave KWS officers who went down the crater my heart goes out for you," read one comment. 

Others, however, castigated KWS for what they termed 'slow response'

"24 hours to rescue an injured person, why are we being asked to pay more at the gate? Our fees should fund faster care, not just entrance. Anyway, glad he is safe," one comment read. 

"KWS with all the resources can do better. The institution must invest in reliable resources for rescue to ensure that accidents like these ones do not take 24hrs unless otherwise. KWS must also be proactive rather than being reactive!" another wrote.