Kenya defense chief dies
Kenya was struck by tragedy on Thursday as a military helicopter crashed just minutes after take-off, claiming the lives of ten individuals, including the country’s defence chief. President William Ruto confirmed the incident, revealing that the helicopter had been on a visit to military personnel deployed in northwest Kenya to combat cattle rustling.
The crash occurred shortly after the aircraft departed from Cheptulel Boys Secondary School in West Pokot County. President Ruto expressed deep sadness over the loss, particularly mourning the passing of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, whom he described as one of the nation’s bravest generals.
Acknowledging the significance of Ogolla’s service, President Ruto highlighted the painful nature of his demise, emphasizing that it occurred while fulfilling duties in service to the country. Despite the tragic outcome, he noted that two soldiers survived the crash and were promptly taken to the hospital for treatment.
President Ruto announced the launch of an investigation into the incident to determine its cause, recognizing the importance of uncovering the truth behind the tragedy. General Ogolla, who had previously led the Kenyan Air Force, had risen to the position of deputy military chief before assuming the role of Kenya’s military chief.
General Ogolla’s extensive military career began in 1984 when he joined the Kenya Defence Forces. He underwent training as a fighter pilot with the United States Air Force and later served as an instructor pilot at the Kenya Air Force (KAF), according to a profile provided by the Defence Ministry.
