In a tragic incident, a military helicopter crashed in Kenya near the border with Somalia, resulting in the loss of at least eight lives.
The crash occurred in the county of Lamu in coastal Kenya, leaving authorities with unanswered questions about the cause of the accident. The Kenyan defense forces operate in this area to help deter the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabab group, which is based across the border in Somalia.
According to the Department of Defense, the Air Force helicopter was on a night patrol when the crash took place. To determine the exact cause of the incident, a Board of Inquiry has been constituted and dispatched to the scene. While the DoD expressed condolences to the families of the crew, it did not specify the number of individuals who lost their lives.
The loss of lives in this helicopter crash is a devastating blow to the Kenyan military and the country as a whole. It is a grim reminder of the risks and sacrifices that the armed forces constantly face in their efforts to maintain peace and security.
The military personnel and crew on board the helicopter were dedicated individuals who were serving their nation with unwavering commitment.
Kenyan troops are actively engaged in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia, wherein they assist in combating the al-Shabab extremist group. Since their deployment in 2011, the Kenyan forces have played a crucial role in the fight against terrorism in Somalia.
However, plans are now underway to withdraw the multinational forces as the Somali troops gradually assume responsibility for their country’s security.
The al-Shabab group has escalated its attacks in Kenya in recent months, targeting the border region and claiming numerous innocent lives. This surge in violence can be attributed to the mounting pressure faced by the rebels due to a Somali military offensive launched last year.
The offensive followed the election of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in May, forging a renewed commitment to eradicate terrorism from Somali soil.
