Several Injured as KDF Chopper Crashes While Taking Off in Wajir
On Monday around 5:00 p.m., a Kenya Army helicopter collided during takeoff at Wajir Airport, resulting in the severe injuries of two individuals.
A 31-second video clip captured the incident, which showed the aircraft ascending before crashing into a cloud of dust to the dismay of onlookers who had congregated to observe the takeoff.
According to a statement obtained by PoliticalPulseChat and recorded at the Wajir Airport Police Station, the pilot suffered injuries to his right hand and shoulder.
It has been reported that Abey Jimaale, the MCA of Arabajhan Ward who was present, also suffered head injuries. Our helicopter was en route to Arabajhan.
Immediately following their arrival at Wajir County Referral Hospital, the injured were transferred to Nairobi for specialized treatment. They were in a stable condition at the time.
“The scene was visited by Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), KDF, and police officers,” read the police report in part.
“It was documented by scenes of crime personnel and then cordoned off awaiting air accident investigators.”
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The helicopter, which was transporting provisions to families impacted by the flooding in Buna Town, Wajir North, sustained significant damage, as reported by witnesses.
Simultaneously with another incident involving a helicopter en route to retrieve Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination papers, the accident transpired in the same county and on the same day.
A pilot and two passengers en route to Arbajahan were injured in the other collision.
As per the statement made by North Eastern Regional Commissioner John Otieno, the three individuals were transported to the medical facility for treatment.
The helicopter accidents had a cumulative impact of six injuries, all of which occurred within Wajir County.
Even though police initiated investigations, the cause of the two collisions remained unknown.
Several Injured as KDF Chopper Crashes While Taking Off in Wajir