A tragic incident unfolded in Kenya on Thursday as a military helicopter carrying several top officials, including the defence chief, crashed in Elgeyo Marakwet county. The helicopter, which had more than 10 senior commanders on board, burst into flames upon impact, according to a senior police officer.
Among those on board was Defence Forces chief General Francis Omondi Ogolla, who was appointed to the position by President William Ruto last year. The group was reportedly on a security mission in the region where Kenya Defence Forces soldiers are deployed.
President Ruto swiftly called for an urgent meeting of the National Security Council following news of the crash. The exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed, as there has been no official statement on the matter.
General Ogolla, a trained fighter pilot who joined the KDF in 1984, had a distinguished career within the military, culminating in his appointment as Chief of the Defence Forces. Despite some controversy surrounding his appointment, President Ruto stood by his decision, citing Ogolla’s qualifications and experience.
The crash has sent shockwaves through the country, with many expressing concern and offering condolences to those affected by the tragedy. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, as authorities work to piece together what led to this devastating incident.