UPDF Confirms Death of 5 Military Chiefs As Mi-24 Gunship Explodes In Deadly Fire Ball

Mogadishu – July 2, 2025

A devastating military helicopter crash rocked Mogadishu International Airport early this morning when a Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Mi-24 gunship plunged to the ground and exploded in a fiery blast, killing five on board and injuring six others — including three civilians.

The helicopter, tail number AUO-015, was on a routine combat escort mission around 7:30 AM when disaster struck just 200 metres east of the airport’s North Ramp.

Witnesses reported hearing a loud bang followed by a massive fireball, as the chopper’s munitions detonated on impact.

“It was like a war zone,” said one airport worker. “The explosion shook the buildings — debris and flames were everywhere!”

Uganda People’s Defense Forces says in a statement that there were eight personnel on board, including six crew members.

Miraculously, the pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer survived the crash but suffered severe burns and critical injuries.

All three, along with the wounded civilians caught in the blast radius, were rushed to the AUSSOM Sector 1 Level II Hospital.

UPDF says emergency teams from the UN, the airport fire brigade, and AUSSOM Explosive Ordnance Disposal units quickly swarmed the scene, battling the blaze and securing the area against further explosions.

Officials have launched a full investigation into what caused the deadly crash. So far, no foul play has been ruled out.

As the smoke clears, the nation mourns the loss of five brave service members.