Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations have summoned Cleophas Malala, the Deputy Leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party, over a controversial helicopter landing.
The incident happened during a national secondary school games final held at the Mumias Sports Complex stadium.
Malala is expected to appear at the DCI offices in Kakamega on Friday, August 8, to explain why he decided to land the helicopter at the centre of the stadium while students, teachers, and residents were attending the games.
According to Western region police commander Issa Muhamoud, the helicopter’s landing was not only dangerous but also disrupted the ongoing activities and caused unnecessary panic.
The landing reportedly took place during halftime of a football match between Musingu High School and St Joseph’s Kitale, throwing the stadium into confusion.
Commander Muhamoud said that such a move endangered public safety and violated both aviation rules and public land use regulations.
He urged Malala to present himself to the DCI without fail and added that failure to cooperate could lead to serious legal consequences.
The police are investigating several possible offences including endangering human life, trespassing on public land, and breaking aviation laws.
The police boss made it clear that both Malala and the helicopter pilot would face criminal charges if found guilty. He also warned that anyone else involved in the incident would not be spared from prosecution.
Authorities are particularly concerned about the lack of coordination with the event organisers and the possible intention behind the landing.
This is not the first time Cleophas Malala has had a run-in with law enforcement. Earlier in May, he was summoned over another incident during a political rally that turned chaotic in Western Kenya.
That confrontation saw clashes between his supporters and police, and ended with the police impounding three of Malala’s vehicles.
Back then, the police accused Malala of failing to notify the authorities about the gathering and asked him to report to DCI offices to record a statement.
Despite the ongoing investigations and fresh summons, Malala has not issued any public response.
As one of President Ruto’s strongest political critics, his silence has drawn more attention to the issue.
The authorities have made it clear that the matter will not be taken lightly, and investigations will proceed whether Malala cooperates or not.
The outcome could have wider implications for public safety during political and public events across the country.
Leave feedback about this