10 officers died and 13 others incurred injuries after the Mi-171E Air Force chopper crashed and burst into flames at Ol Tepesi area in Ngong, Kajiado County on Thursday, June 24.
The President’s visit came 24 hours after KDF issued a statement revealing that some officers were airlifted to Nairobi.
Uhuru wished quick recovery to the injured officers at Defence Forces Memorial Hospital (DFMH) in Mbagathi, Nairobi County.
“The Commander in Chief (C-in-C) of the Defence Forces visited those at the wards and the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Uhuru encouraged them and wished them a quick recovery.
“He expressed his gratitude for their dedication and selfless sacrifice in service to the nation,” KDF announced.
Among those who survived were the co-pilot, a Second Lieutenant and senior officers who were seated at the front, close to the aircraft’s main door.
Accompanying the President to Mbagathi were Vice Chief of the Defence Forces Lieutenant General Levi Mghalu, Commander Kenya Army Lieutenant General Walter Koipaton, Commander Kenya Air Force Major General Francis Ogolla.
Others were Director of Medical Services Major General (Dr) George Nga’nga, Senior Medical Officer (DFMH) Brigadier (Dr) Charles Kingori, Chief of Compensation and Welfare Brigadier Jeremiah Maroko.
KDF spokesperson Col Zipporah Kioko on the same day stated they would give an update on the incident at a later date.
“All the passengers onboard the KAF Helicopter Mi 171E, which crashed upon landing, at Ol Tepesi in Kajiado are accounted for and have been moved to safety,” that was Kioko’s last statement on the day of the tragedy.
Source: KENYAGIST.COM