A Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) fighter jet has crashed and killed five military personnel in Mogadishu, Somalia. The UPDF fighter jet crashed on Wednesday morning according to UPDF Spokesperson, Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye. The UPDF said the Jet crashed at 7:30am.
“This morning at approximately 0730 hours, a Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Mi-24 helicopter, aircraft tail number AUO-015, crashed approximately 200 metres East of the North Ramp at Mogadishu International Airport,” Maj Gen Kulayigye said.
Kulayigye said the helicopter was conducting a routine combat escort mission when the incident occurred. On board the aircraft were eight personnel, including six crew members.
“The impact triggered a detonation of onboard munitions, causing significant damage to nearby structures and injuring three civilians,” Maj Gen Kulayigye said.
UPDF said the pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer survived the crash but sustained serious injuries and severe burns. They were evacuated, along with the three injured civilians, to the AUSSOM Sector 1 Level II Hospital for treatment. The 05 personnel on board died in this helicopter crash.
“A joint emergency response team, comprising firefighters from Mogadishu International Airport and the United Nations, along with AUSSOM Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel, is managing the scene and supporting rescue operations,” Maj Gen Kulayigye said.
UPDF said an official investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash. Quick recovery to the Injured and May the souls of the deceased comrades Rest in Peace.