Bandits Attack Village Near Site of Deadly Kenya Military Helicopter Crash

Bandits attacked Kaben village in Elgeyo Marakwet, Kenya, near the site of a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) helicopter crash that killed 10 soldiers, including Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla.

The bandits engaged in a 30-minute gun battle with police before fleeing, with no livestock stolen and casualties unknown.

The attack occurred while KDF officers were still on the ground investigating the helicopter crash that happened the previous day. Police are on high alert and have launched a manhunt for the bandits, who are believed to be from the Pokot community.

On Thursday, a KDF helicopter carrying General Ogolla and his entourage crashed shortly after takeoff in Sindar area, Kaben location, Elgeyo Marakwet County. The crash happened around 2:20 pm, with the helicopter bursting into flames upon impact. General Ogolla and 10 other military personnel on board were killed, while two survivors were rescued and taken to the hospital.

The crash site was immediately cordoned off by KDF officers, and the military has had a heavy presence in the area since Wednesday as part of the 'Operation Maliza Uhalifu' mission. The Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander reported that tension had been building in the area prior to the accident, with one person shot dead by suspected cattle rustlers earlier in the day.

Why this matters: The tragic helicopter crash and subsequent bandit attack highlight the ongoing security challenges in the Kerio Valley region of Kenya. The loss of top military officials, including the Chief of Defence Forces, is a significant blow to the country's efforts to combat cattle rustling and banditry in the area.

President William Ruto expressed his condolences and described General Ogolla as a "gallant soldier" and a "distinguished four-star general" who had fallen in the line of duty. The governors of Elgeyo Marakwet and Uasin Gishu also mourned General Ogolla, who was known for his efforts to end the banditry menace in the Kerio Valley region.

Key Takeaways

• Bandits attacked Kaben village near KDF helicopter crash site, no casualties reported.
• KDF helicopter carrying CDF Gen. Ogolla crashed, killing 10 military personnel.
• Crash site cordoned off, tension building in Kerio Valley region prior to accident.
• Tragic crash and bandit attack highlight ongoing security challenges in Kerio Valley.
• President Ruto mourned Gen. Ogolla, a "gallant soldier" known for ending banditry.