Farah Abdulle, an airport staff member, recounted the distressing moment, stating, “We heard the blast and saw smoke and flames over a helicopter. The smoke entirely covered the helicopter.” The Somali Civil Aviation Authority’s head, Ahmed Maalim, confirmed that the helicopter had just arrived from Balidogle airbase in the Lower Shabelle region.
Although specifics about casualties remain unclear, Maalim indicated that an investigation is actively underway to determine the circumstances leading to the crash. This incident underscores the ongoing role of Ugandan troops in the African Union force, supporting the Somali government in its fight against the al-Qaeda-affiliated al-Shabab group, which has been engaged in violent insurgency throughout the country.
As the situation develops, further updates will emerge from ongoing investigations, shedding light on this tragic event.
Although specifics about casualties remain unclear, Maalim indicated that an investigation is actively underway to determine the circumstances leading to the crash. This incident underscores the ongoing role of Ugandan troops in the African Union force, supporting the Somali government in its fight against the al-Qaeda-affiliated al-Shabab group, which has been engaged in violent insurgency throughout the country.
As the situation develops, further updates will emerge from ongoing investigations, shedding light on this tragic event.
