Devastation on the Tarmac: Ugandan Military Helicopter Crash Rocks Somalia’s Busiest Airport, Leaving 5 Dead
What started as a standard military escort mission ended in disaster on Sunday morning when a Ugandan Mi-24 attack helicopter crashed and exploded at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, Somalia — claiming five lives and injuring several more in a catastrophic runway fireball.
Routine Mission Turns Tragic
The helicopter, returning from a security patrol over the volatile Lower Shabelle region, slammed into the runway around 7:30 a.m. local time. Moments later, it burst into flames, triggering violent secondary explosions from its onboard ammunition.
Witnesses described a terrifying chain of events. “The moment it hit the ground, the whole area lit up,” said one airport worker. “It was like watching a fireball tear through the sky.”
Runway Engulfed, Civilians Caught in Blast
The impact destroyed portions of the tarmac and nearby structures, sending thick black smoke billowing into the morning sky. At least three civilians on the ground were caught in the blast and suffered injuries. Emergency services responded swiftly, managing to contain the blaze before it could spread further.
Ongoing Investigation: What Went Wrong?
The Somali Civil Aviation Authority has launched an official investigation to determine the cause of the crash. While mechanical failure has not been ruled out, officials caution that it’s too early to draw conclusions.
Military representatives have withheld the identities of the victims until next of kin are notified. The loss is a grim reminder of the ever-present danger that accompanies military operations — even those considered routine.
A Nation Demands Answers
As investigators sift through the charred wreckage, questions loom large. Was this a tragic accident, a technical malfunction, or something more? The public, deeply rattled by the explosion at Somalia’s most vital airport, is calling for transparency and swift answers.
Though the scorched ground has since been cleared, the emotional and symbolic scars remain — a stark testament to the fragility of life in conflict-prone regions where danger can descend without warning.
Authorities promise to release further updates as the investigation progresses. For now, Somalia and Uganda mourn together — united in grief and determined to uncover the truth.