Cleophas Malala, pilot in hot water over helicopter landing stunt at school games

Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala is staring at possible criminal charges after a private helicopter linked to him made a dramatic and unauthorized landing at the centre of a packed stadium during national secondary school games in Kakamega.

The incident, which occurred during halftime of a heated football match between Musingu High School and St. Joseph's Kitale, shocked the crowd of approximately 20,000 spectators, many of them schoolchildren, teachers, and sports officials.

According to Western Region Police Commander Issa Muhamud, the chopper's descent was abrupt, unannounced, and had no clearance from aviation or event authorities. He described the move as "reckless, self-serving publicity" by Malala, carried out at the expense of public safety.

"This was reckless, self-serving publicity orchestrated by a lone politician Cleophas Malala who sought nothing, more than political mileage and personal glorification at the expense of the safety and wellbeing of our children. And our citizen," said Muhamud.

The police boss noted that the helicopter touched down on the field while learners and fans were present, potentially putting lives at risk.

The move not only disrupted the national event but also violated multiple laws, including: The Civil Aviation Act (2013) The Basic Education Act, Ministry of Education child safety guidelines, Public safety and event protocols, and Sections of the Penal Code.

"Let us not belittle this. That chopper could have crashed. Children could have been trampled in panic. Lives could have been lost," warned Muhamud. "Leadership is about service and restraint not grandstanding."

The police have now launched full criminal investigations in conjunction with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), the Ministry of Education, and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

Both the pilot and Malala along with any other individuals involved in the unauthorized landing will face criminal charges including endangering public safety, trespassing on public land, public nuisance, and violating aviation regulations.

"We will not allow disorder arrogance and impunity to endanger the lives of our future generation. The law will take its full course. We call upon Kenyans to stand together in protecting our children our institutions, our learners and our national values," said Muhamud, adding that such conduct will not be tolerated no matter one's political status.

With the East Africa Secondary School Games set to kick off on August 12, and delegates expected from over 10 countries, officials are keen to avoid a repeat of such a fiasco.

"Suppose that helicopter had malfunctioned? We'd have lost lives," he added. "We expect order and responsibility as we prepare to host regional guests."
Malala has been ordered to present himself to the Regional Criminal Investigations Office (RCIO) Western by Friday to give a statement.