Tragic Helicopter Crash Mars African Union Peacekeeping Efforts in Somalia

In a tragic accident, a military helicopter affiliated with the African Union's peacekeeping mission crashed in the capital of Somalia, Mogadishu, killing five people. The incident occurred on Wednesday, according to Ugandan authorities.

The Mi-24 helicopter, originally owned by the Ugandan Air Force, was conducting a routine combat escort mission when it crashed upon arrival from the Lower Shabelle region. The crash left the pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer with serious injuries.

The accident's cause is currently under investigation, as confirmed by the Somalia Civil Aviation Authority. Preliminary eyewitness accounts describe a critical malfunction leading to the helicopter spinning uncontrollably before impact. The African Union mission continues its focus on combating extremist al-Shabab rebels despite this setback.

(With inputs from agencies.)