CLEOPHAS MALALA SUMMONED BY DCI OVER CHOPPER LANDING DRAMA AT SCHOOL GAMES

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala has been summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) following a controversial helicopter landing incident during a national secondary school games final in Mumias.

Malala is expected to appear before DCI officers in Kakamega by Friday, August 8, to explain why a chopper he was in landed at the centre of the Mumias Sports Complex during halftime of a tense match between Musingu High School and St. Joseph’s Kitale.

Western Region Police Commander Issa Muhamoud has accused Malala and the pilot of endangering lives, trespassing on public land, and breaching aviation rules. Panic reportedly spread through the crowd of students, teachers, and residents when the helicopter descended onto the pitch.

Muhamoud warned that failure to comply with the summons could lead to criminal charges against Malala, the pilot, and any other individuals involved. “This was an unauthorised landing that put hundreds at risk. Investigations will determine accountability,” he said.

The police will now assess whether the landing violated Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) protocols and whether political motives influenced the move.

This isn't Malala's first brush with the DCI. In May 2025, he was questioned after chaos erupted during a political rally in Western Kenya. That event led to his vehicles being impounded following clashes between police and residents.

Malala, who has recently emerged as a vocal critic of President Ruto's administration, is yet to publicly respond to the latest summons. The incident adds to growing political tension in the region, with security agencies keen to rein in what they term as irresponsible conduct by leaders during public events.