This archive report was first published on 25 June 2021.
On June 24, 2021, a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) helicopter crashed at Ol Tepesi in Kajiado County, resulting in fatalities.
According to an official dispatch from Colonel Zipporah Kioko, the KDF confirmed that some passengers had passed away in the crash.
Colonel Kioko stated that all surviving passengers were undergoing treatment at the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital in Nairobi, but did not reveal their identities as their families had not been contacted.
The KDF spokesperson also announced that an investigation into the cause of the crash had been launched.
Confirming the incident, Kajiado West OCPD Vincent Kitili stated that 13 passengers had been rushed to the Memorial Hospital after being rescued at the scene.
At the time, authorities feared that at least 10 passengers had perished in the crash, although the exact number of fatalities was not disclosed.
It was also noted that the military choppers carry up to 26 passengers at full capacity.
Colonel Kioko's initial statement read, "All the passengers onboard the KAF Helicopter Mi 171 E, which crashed at landing, at Ol Tepesi in Kajiado County today 24th June 2021 at 9:00 am, are accounted for and have been moved to safety."
He further stated, "Regrettably, following the crash, we suffered fatalities. The process of communicating with the families to relay the information and KDF condolences are underway. Aircraft accident investigations are also at the crash site to establish the cause of the accident,"
