Kenya’s military chief among 10 people killed in helicopter crash

Kenya's top military leader perished in a helicopter crash in the country's northwest, as announced by President William Ruto.

General Francis Ogolla, along with nine others, lost their lives in the tragic incident, which occurred at 2:20 pm (11:20 GMT) on Thursday in Elgeyo Marakwet County, approximately 400km (250 miles) northwest of Nairobi, the capital.

The helicopter, part of a military delegation visiting troops engaged in counter-cattle rustling operations in northwest Kenya, crashed mere minutes after departing near Cheptulel Boys Secondary School in West Pokot County. The cause of the crash remained unclear at the time of reporting.

President Ruto expressed profound sorrow at the loss, describing General Ogolla's passing as a significant blow to the nation. He also disclosed that two soldiers survived the crash and were receiving medical treatment. Additionally, an investigative team was dispatched to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

General Ogolla, who previously served as the head of the Kenyan air force before assuming the roles of deputy military chief and ultimately ascending to the top military position last year under Ruto's leadership, began his military career in 1984.

He underwent training as a fighter pilot with the United States Air Force and later as an instructor pilot with the Kenyan air force, as outlined in a Ministry of Defence profile.

Notably, General Ogolla's promotion to the highest military rank came amidst allegations from Ruto of involvement in a purported scheme to overturn the outcome of the 2022 presidential election. Despite these accusations, Ruto asserted Ogolla's exceptional qualifications for the position.

The region where the crash occurred has been marred by violence, resulting in numerous civilian and police casualties.