Mogadishu, Somalia – July 2, 2025
A Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Mi-24 attack helicopter crashed near Mogadishu International Airport on Tuesday (July 1, 2025) morning, killing five personnel and injuring several others, according to Maj Gen Felix Kulaygye, the UPDF spokesperson.
He confirmed in a statement that the helicopter, bearing tail number AUO-015, went down at approximately 07:30 hours while on a routine combat escort mission.
The aircraft is said to have crashed roughly 200 metres east of the airport’s North Ramp and was carrying eight personnel, including six crew members.
“Tragically, five of our personnel lost their lives in the incident,” said Kulayigye. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of our fallen comrades and wish a quick recovery to the injured.”
He said the crash resulted in the detonation of onboard munitions upon impact, causing significant damage to nearby structures and injuring three civilians in the vicinity.
He stated that the pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer survived the crash but sustained serious injuries and severe burns.
They were immediately evacuated, alongside the injured civilians, to the AUSSOM Sector 1 Level II Hospital for emergency medical treatment.
Emergency response teams, including firefighters from Mogadishu International Airport, United Nations personnel, and the AUSSOM Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, were swiftly deployed to the crash site to support rescue and containment operations.
Kulayigye stated that a formal investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash and that updates will be shared as more details become available.
“Quick recovery to the injured. May the souls of our fallen comrades rest in eternal peace,” he said.
