5 Dead After KDF Chopper With Top Military Officers Crashes, Catches Fire

At least five top military officials have died while three others were injured after their helicopter crashed and caught fire in the Cheptulel area in West Pokot. 

The helicopter is reported to have carried top Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) commanders before it went up in flames after it crashed in the area. 

Speculations are rife on the identities of those on board but the Military Headquarters and the Ministry of Defence are yet to comment on the deadly accident.

A KDF Chopper before crashing in West Pokot on Thursday, April 18, 2024. /HANDOUT

Police sources say the military officials were in the area to assess security following increased attacks by bandits in the region in recent weeks.

Unconfirmed reports indicate that the Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla was onboard the aircraft when it crashed.

Residents have since been barred from accessing the crash site, as KDF and other relevant officials continue to investigate the scene. 

Witnesses on the ground claim that survivors of the horrific accident are currently being airlifted to Nairobi for treatment. 

The helicopter was reportedly taking off from Cheptulel Boys Secondary School and onboard were several Kenya Defence Forces officials.

The team had left a meeting that had been convened to discuss the security situation in the West Pokot region where several top leaders were present. 

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura cautioned Kenyans against speculating on the chopper crash.

"Dear fellow Kenyans. An official communication concerning the Military Aircraft crash shall be issued soon. 

"Let’s stay calm and avoid any speculation whatsoever at this critical juncture," he wrote.

Meanwhile, it is alleged that Senior military officials are currently at State House, Nairobi to officially deliver a statement on the news that is still developing. 

Kenyans have therefore been warned against spreading fake news surrounding the incident, in consideration of the magnitude of the officials presumed to be of high ranking within the KDF. 

Kenya Defence Forces soldiers disembark from a truck. /NAIROBI NEWS