Plane crash kills 20 in South Sudan

According to the Unity state’s information minister, a plane crash in northern South Sudan has resulted in at least 20 fatalities. The aircraft went down close to the oil fields in Unity state at approximately 10:30 AM (08:30 GMT) shortly after departing for the capital, Juba, on Wednesday.

The aircraft went down 500 metres from the airport, with 21 individuals on board. Currently, there is only one survivor, as reported by Gatwech Bipal Both to the AFP news agency.

Among the passengers were 16 South Sudanese nationals, two Chinese citizens, and one Indian, all of whom were employees of the Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC).

Bipal mentioned that the plane was engaged in a routine mission to the region.

Previously, the United Nations’ Radio Miraya indicated that both the pilot and co-pilot were among the deceased.

Images circulating on social media depicted the damaged aircraft overturned in a field, with debris scattered throughout the area.

Overloading of aircraft is a common issue in South Sudan.