A Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Mi-24 combat helicopter crashed near Mogadishu International Airport on the morning of July 1, claiming the lives of five military personnel and injuring six others, including civilians.
According to the UPDF, the incident occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. local time when the helicopter, tail number AUO-015, went down about 200 metres east of the airport’s North Ramp while on a routine combat escort mission.
In an official statement, Major General Felix Kulaigye, Director of Defence Public Information, confirmed the casualties.
“Tragically, five of our personnel on board died in the crash,” said Maj. Gen. Kulaigye. “The pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer survived but sustained serious injuries and severe burns. They, along with three injured civilians, were evacuated to the AUSSOM Sector 1 Level II Hospital for medical attention.”
The crash triggered a detonation of the helicopter’s onboard munitions, causing extensive damage to nearby structures and injuring civilians in the vicinity.
Emergency response teams from Mogadishu International Airport, the United Nations, and AUSSOM’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit responded swiftly, securing the scene and managing rescue efforts.
“The cause of the crash is not yet known, but a thorough investigation is already underway,” Kulaigye stated. “We are committed to establishing the facts surrounding this incident.”
The UPDF has been a key contributor to the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia, and the loss of personnel in the line of duty highlights the risks faced by troops operating in such complex environments.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen heroes,” Maj. Gen. Kulaigye added. “May their souls rest in peace, and we wish a quick and full recovery to the injured.”More details will be released as the investigation progresses.