A military helicopter, reportedly carrying a very high-ranking officer, has crashed in northwestern Kenya. Tragically, the crash resulted in the loss of five lives and left three others injured.

Several senior Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) officers were involved in a chopper accident during a tour in Elgeyo Marakwet County. Preliminary reports revealed that the Kenya Airforce chopper crashed on April 18, 2024, during takeoff with nine people on board.

Police have cordoned off the area as rescue missions were initiated. Elgeyo Marakwet County Commandant Peter Mulinge confirmed the incident in a police report, stating that five occupants perished in the crash while three survived.

Photos published by The Kenya Times depicted the debris of the chopper on fire, along with images captured moments before its departure.

The cause of the accident had not yet been established at the time of publishing this article. Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura stated that an official communication regarding the crash would be issued soon. He urged the public to remain calm and refrain from speculation during this critical period.

In a statement, State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed announced that President William Ruto had convened an urgent meeting of the National Security Council at State House Nairobi. The meeting aims to assess the situation, with the Council expected to provide a statement to the nation.

Mohamed stated, "President William Ruto has convened an urgent meeting of the National Security Council at State House Nairobi this evening following a Kenya Defence Forces’ helicopter crash this afternoon in Elgeyo-Marakwet County."

The National Security Council meeting is chaired by the Ministry of Defense Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.

A section of notable leaders, both inside and outside parliament, reacted to the news of the crash, with many expressing concern over the safety of CDF Ogolla. National Assembly majority leader Kimani Ichung’wa, during a live parliament session, confirmed the crash and urged the public to avoid speculation.

Ichung’wa stated, "All that I can confirm is that it’s indeed true that there has been a crash of KDF helicopter which we have seen in the news. Being responsible leaders also, we do not want to speculate as to the cause of the crash, we are all awaiting news."

He further mentioned reports of casualties and survivors, urging the public to allow the Defense Forces and the military to handle the matter. According to him, KDF officials were already on the ground assessing the situation.

Ichung’wa's remarks followed a query from MP Millie Odhiambo, who sought confirmation of the reports during the parliamentary session. Odhiambo suggested postponing discussions on the Land Commission Bill in light of the national interest.

Former nominated senator Millicent Omanga urged prayers for CDF General Francis Ogolla and his team, while seasoned lawyer Miguna Miguna expressed his hope for Ogolla's well-being.

CDF Ogolla assumed command of the military in early May 2023, succeeding former General Robert Kibochi, who retired after 44 years of military service.

General Ogolla was appointed by President William Ruto from a list of approximately 10 nominees vying to fill the vacant post. He began his military career as a fighter pilot and ascended through the ranks to become the commander of the Kenya Air Force. Before his appointment as Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), Ogolla served as the vice chief of the KDF. Apart from his military duties, Ogolla is known for his passion for reading and golfing.

Hailing from the Luo community, Kenya's fourth-largest ethnic group, General Ogolla brings a diverse background and experience to his leadership role within the military.

General Ogolla, a highly experienced KDF senior officer, began his military journey in 1984. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in 1985 and was assigned to the Kenya Air Force (KAF), where he embarked on his career as a fighter pilot.

His commitment to excellence led him to pursue additional training opportunities, including a stint with the United States Air Force, where he received instruction as an instructor and fighter pilot. During this time, he specialized in areas such as counterterrorism, imagery intelligence, and accident investigation.

Throughout his career, General Ogolla's dedication to continuous learning and professional development has been evident. His hard work and expertise have been recognized with various promotions, allowing him to rise through the ranks of the military over the years.