The ongoing investigation into the tragic death of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Francis Ogolla has uncovered significant irregularities regarding the helicopter that claimed his life. According to the probe, the ill-fated chopper was not the official aircraft designated for General Ogolla’s missions. Typically, the CDF is assigned heavy-duty Puma helicopters or double-bladed helicopters for such operations; however, none of these were available on the day of the crash.
Reports indicate that the CDF’s official helicopters were being utilized by other high-ranking government officials at the time. As a high-priority figure, the CDF is afforded almost the same level of treatment and security as the President, particularly in cases of national emergencies. This includes having a standby helicopter, a doctor, and a mobile blood bank ready whenever he is airborne. Unfortunately, these crucial arrangements were not in place when General Ogolla embarked on his journey to a volatile region.
The investigation further highlights that essential personnel expected to accompany General Ogolla were absent. Notably, the Major General in charge of the Western Command, the region General Ogolla was visiting, was not part of the convoy. Instead, the highest-ranking officer present was a brigadier, which is a rank lower than the major general.
Additionally, the report points out that the Bell Huey helicopter that crashed had been due for maintenance. This chopper was used to transport General Ogolla to the bandit-affected area, given that his official helicopters were occupied by other senior government officials.
The findings raise critical questions about the circumstances leading to the CDF’s use of a non-designated helicopter and the apparent lapses in protocol and security arrangements. The ongoing investigation seeks to uncover the full extent of these irregularities and the responsibilities of the involved parties.
