CDF Francis Ogolla killed in chopper crash, President Ruto announces
Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla during his swearing in. PHOTO | COURTESY
Audio By Vocalize
President William
Ruto has announced the death of Chief of Defence Forces Francis Ogolla in
a helicopter crash on Thursday afternoon.
Addressing the
press in the evening, President Ruto said the military chopper crashed at
the Sindar area in Elgeyo Marakwet County at around 2:20pm.
"Today, at
2:20pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident in Sindar area, Keben
location, Tot division, in Elgeyo Marakwet County. I am deeply saddened to
announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of the
Kenya Defence Forces," he said.
The Head of State
went on to announce that the ill-fated helicopter was also carrying 11 other
military officers, nine of whom were killed alongside CDF Ogolla in the crash,
leaving only two survivors.
The deceased were;
Brigadier Swale Saidi, Colonel Duncan Keittany, Lieutenant Colonel
David Sawe, Major George Benson Magondu (Pilot), Captain Sora Mohamed, Captain
Hillary Litali, Senior Sergeant John Kinyua Mureithi, Sergeant Cliphonce
Omondi, and Sergeant Rose Nyawira.
“I convey my
deepest condolences to all families that are grieving this untimely loss, and
our mourning nation as well. I also wish quick recovery to the two injured
soldiers in this accident,” stated the President.
Join the Discussion
Share your perspective with the Citizen Digital community.
No comments yet
This discussion is waiting for your voice. Be the first to share your thoughts!