Democracy for the Citizens Party Deputy Leader, Cleophas Malala, has been summoned by detectives over a dramatic helicopter landing during a national school games final at Mumias Sports Complex in Kakamega.
Malala is expected to appear before the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) offices in Kakamega on Friday, August 8, to explain why his chopper landed in the middle of an active stadium right in the middle of a match.
According to Western Region Police Commander Issa Muhamoud, the unexpected landing happened during halftime of a tense final between Musingu High School and St Joseph’s Kitale, throwing the crowd mostly students and teachers into confusion and panic.
“This move endangered lives and we are treating this as a serious safety concern, and investigations are already taking place,” said Muhamoud.The police say they are looking into several possible offenses. Muhamoud stated that if found culpable, Malala, the pilot, and anyone else involved could face criminal charges.
“I call upon former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala to appear before the DCI and record a statement. Failure to do so may lead to further action,” Muhamoud added.This isn’t Malala’s first run-in with the authorities. Back in May, he was also summoned in connection with a political rally in Western Kenya that turned chaotic. That incident saw his three vehicles impounded and several of his supporters clash with police.
Despite the fresh summons, Malala, who has grown increasingly vocal in his criticism of President William Ruto’s administration, is yet to comment on the matter.