UNAMID helicopter crashes in Central Darfur

September 29, 2013 (KHARTOUM) – A helicopter of the hybrid peacekeeping mission crashed in central Darfur state during an emergency landing but all the passengers and crew are safe, said the UNAMID on Sunday.

While on a flight from Central Darfur capital Zalengei to Nirtiti on Sunday morning, the helicopter experienced a technical problem shortly after the take-off.

The chopper, which transported 19 people and 4 crew, crashed during the emergency landing in Zalengei but none of the passengers was hurt

“Only three passengers suffered minor injuries and were swiftly taken to UNAMID’s Level 1 hospital in Zalengei for treatment”, the UNAMID said.

The mission said an investigation is conducted to detect the cause of the incident.

“UNAMID is conducting a check on all its rotary assets to ensure their technical safety”, the statement pointed out.

The statement did not provide any technical details about the helicopter.

(ST)