At least 13 people were killed after a military plane crashed near Kenge in Kwango province, Democratic Republic of Congo, on Friday.
The aircraft was travelling to the capital, Kinshasa, from the southwestern city of Kikwit when it experienced a technical problem and attempted to land in Kenge, according to Remy Saki Bokinda, the vice governor of Kwango province.
BREAKING: At least 13 people killed after small plane crashes near airport in Kenge, DR Congo. pic.twitter.com/AE3c8GYGxX
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However, there was no landing strip available in Kenge. The aircraft subsequently crashed into a residential plot, Bokinda said.
The crash reportedly left the aircraft engulfed in flames, with images shared on social media showing a crowd gathered around the burning wreckage.
Top Military Officials Among Those Killed
The passengers included General Likulia Bakumi, the army’s auditor general, as well as a major, a captain and other military personnel. Civilians were also among those on board.
“All those on board died,” Bokinda said, adding that 12 victims were burned beyond recognition. The pilot’s lifeless body was found outside the aircraft.
The fatal crash has prompted an investigation by Congo’s aviation accident investigation authority. A government statement said the authority has launched a probe into the circumstances and cause of the crash.
The incident adds to a difficult period for Congo’s army, which has suffered significant setbacks.