UPDATED – Sudanese military plane crashes in North Kordofan
‘- Updated with further details
December 30, 2011 (KHARTOUM) – The Sudanese army announced that a military plane crashed in the capital of North Kordofan state in the early hours of Friday.
Sa’ad said that six of the crew were killed in the helicopter crash, which was on an “administrative mission” carrying “military ammunition”.
He added that the chopper encountered a technical failure three minutes after takeoff causing a fire on board which forced the pilot to seek an emergency landing in a square near the airport.
Earlier today, the SAF military spokesperson said the plane was on a reconnaissance mission. It is not clear what prompted change in the story.
He said there were no casualties for the civilians on the ground and that assessment is underway to estimate the damages.
SAF is engaged in fighting since last June with Sudan People Liberation Movement North (SPLM-N) in South Kordofan.
The Sudanese director of National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS) Mohamed Atta has pledged that 2012 is the year that will witness the crushing of all rebels whether in Blue Nile, Darfur or South Kordofan.
(ST)