By Ritah Atukwatse,
Mogadishu
A Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) helicopter crashed near Mogadishu International Airport on Wednesday morning, killing five military personnel. The Mi-24 helicopter, with tail number AUO-015, was on a routine combat escort mission when it went down around 7:30 a.m. near the airport’s North Ramp.
There were eight people on board, including six crew members. The crash caused significant damage to nearby structures and injured three civilians due to onboard munitions detonation. The pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer survived with serious injuries and burns, and were rushed to the AUSOM Sector 1 Level II Hospital for treatment.
A joint emergency response team, including firefighters from Mogadishu International Airport and the United Nations, responded to the scene. An official investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash. Major General Felix Kulayigye expressed condolences on behalf of the UPDF and wished the injured a quick recovery.
