Tragedy has struck Uganda’s peacekeeping mission in Somalia after a military helicopter crashed and exploded at Mogadishu’s main airport, killing five soldiers and injuring several others. The incident occurred during a routine AU combat escort mission, raising fresh concerns about operational risks in the volatile region.
Highlights:
- Five Ugandan soldiers died in a helicopter crash at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde Airport.
- The Mi-24 chopper was on a routine African Union mission.
- Onboard munitions exploded after the crash, causing a fire.
- Three crew members survived with severe injuries.
- Investigation launched by Somali, AU, and Ugandan authorities.
Main Story:
A Ugandan military Mi-24 helicopter assigned to the African Union peacekeeping mission crashed and exploded near the runway at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport on Tuesday, July 2. The crash killed five soldiers instantly and left three crew members with critical injuries.
Authorities say the aircraft was returning from a combat escort mission in Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region when it lost control approximately 200 meters from the runway. Upon impact, the helicopter’s stored ammunition detonated, igniting a fire that damaged surrounding structures and injured three nearby civilians.
The pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer survived but sustained severe burns and injuries. Emergency response teams from the airport, the UN, and AU rushed to contain the blaze and assist the injured. All survivors were taken to a military medical facility for treatment.
The African Union Commission extended heartfelt condolences to the government of Uganda and the families of the fallen soldiers. Somalia’s leadership also mourned the loss, praising the dedication of the UPDF forces who have been instrumental in peace efforts across Somalia since 2007.
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash, with Somali Civil Aviation, the AU, and Uganda’s military collaborating on the probe. Preliminary reports suggest mechanical failure or pilot error, but no official cause has been confirmed.
As the region mourns its fallen peacekeepers, the crash is a sobering reminder of the high price paid by those working for peace in some of Africa’s most dangerous zones.
