Deputy Party Leader of the Democratic Congress Party (DCP), Cleophas Malala, is set to face criminal charges after allegedly landing a helicopter without authorization at the Mumias Sports Complex during the national secondary school games finals. The incident unfolded during halftime of a highly anticipated match between Musingu High School and St. Joseph’s Kitale, witnessed by thousands of students, teachers, education officials, and spectators.
According to Western Region Police Commander Issa Muhamoud, both Malala and the helicopter pilot will be prosecuted for multiple offences, including endangering public safety, creating a public nuisance, trespass, and violating aviation regulations.
“It was not an emergency landing and it was not an accident,” Muhamoud clarified in a press briefing. “This was a clear violation of civil aviation rules, the Basic Education Act, Ministry of Education child safety guidelines, and the Penal Code.”
The unannounced chopper landing disrupted the national school event, triggering panic among students and teachers. Authorities warn that the incident could have resulted in a stampede or even fatalities.
“The helicopter could have crashed, learners could have trampled on each other, and lives could have been lost,” said Muhamoud, calling the act “irresponsible, reckless and a national embarrassment.”
He further suggested that Malala’s motive was political, describing it as a publicity stunt gone dangerously wrong. “He was probably seeking a political photo opportunity but caused a direct threat to the safety and dignity of Kenyans,” he said.
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Ministry of Education, and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have launched a joint investigation into the incident.
“Full criminal investigations are underway,” Muhamoud confirmed. “This was a flagrant abuse of public space and a breach of child safety protocols.”
He emphasized that the safety of Kenyan children is non-negotiable. “We will not allow disorder, arrogance or impunity to endanger the lives of our future generation. The law will take its full course.”
