Captain Sora Mohammed, pilot flying the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) chopper which crashed in Elgeyo Marakwet, will be laid to rest today (Friday, April 19).
The late Captain Mohammed will buried in accordance with Islam traditions in Marsabit County.
His body will be flown to Helu area which is about four kilometers from Moyale town.
The soldier’s family- including two wives, parents and siblings- is currently undergoing counselling ahead of viewing of the body.
KDF says final preparation for Captain Mohammed’s body is underway ahead of the burial.
Brigadier Swale Saidi, who also died in the chopper crash, will be laid to rest today.
Saidi’s body will be flown to Mombasa.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto declared three days of mourning in honour of the late Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla who perished in a chopper crash on April 18, 2024.
Speaking during a media briefing at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto noted that it was a tragic moment for the country to lose gallant service men and women.
“In honour of the life and the distinguished military career of the fallen general, who lost his life not just while in office, but in active military duty, the nation will observe a period of 3 days of mourning commencing tomorrow 19th April 2024.
“During this time of national mourning, the Kenyan flag, the Kenya Defence Forces Flag, and the Eastern Africa community flag shall fly at half-mast in the Republic of Kenya and Kenya missions abroad,” said President Ruto.
He added that the kenya Air Force has send a team of specialists to investigate the cause of the plane crash.
Other military personnel who perished in the chopper crash are:
1. Colonel Duncan Keittany
2. Lieutenant Colonel David Sawe
3. Major George Benson Magondu
4. Captain Hillary Litali
5. Senior Sergeant John Kinyua Mureithi
6. Sergeant Cliphonce Omondi
7. Sergeant Rose Nyawira
