On board were at least eight military personnel, the UPDF said in an official statement seen by

"A Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) Mi-24 helicopter, aircraft tail number AUO-015, crashed approximately 200 metres East of the North Ramp at Mogadishu International Airport. The helicopter was conducting a routine combat mission when the incident occurred. On board the aircraft were eight personnel, including six crew members," the Ugandan army stated.

Exacerbating the accident was the impact of the commotion midair, which triggered the detonation of onboard munitions, causing significant damage to nearby structures and injuring three civilians, according to the UPDF.

"The pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer survived the crash but sustained serious injuries and severe burns. They were evacuated, along with the three injured civilians, to the AUSSOM Sector 1 Level II Hospital for treatment. Five personnel on board died in this helicopter crash," the UPDF added.

A joint emergency response team, comprising firefighters from Mogadishu International Airport and the United Nations, along with AUSSOM Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel, was deployed to manage the scene and support rescue operations.

"An official investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash. Quick recovery to the Injured and May the souls of the deceased comrades Rest in Peace," UPDF said.

Source: TUKO.co.ke