Russian-linked plane downed in Sudan as civil conflict rages
In Sudan, which is beset by domestic conflict, an Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft belonging to the United Arab Emirates has been shot down, with part of the crew reported to be Russian.
The Mash channel on Telegram reports that the plane's downing was claimed by rebels from the pro-government paramilitary group, the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces. The wreckage landed in Darfur, in western Sudan.
According to media reports, the plane was mistakenly targeted. In the crash area, clashes continue between pro-government forces and their opponents. Social media has seen recordings and photos of the burning wreckage.
Documents of Russians at the crash site
Recordings also show documents found at the crash site, belonging to Russian nationals. The deaths of Russian citizens have reportedly been confirmed by the Russian embassy in Sudan.
"One of the deceased is Viktor Granov, the chief engineer of Airline Transport Incorporation FZC - a company based in the United Arab Emirates and linked to Kyrgyzstan. The certificate also includes the information 'Manas International Airport', which is the main international airport of Kyrgyzstan," reports the Kremlin agency TASS.
The Russian embassy in Sudan noted that the situation is complicated by the crash site's location in war-torn Darfur.
Russian media indicate that the plane was chartered by the United Arab Emirates and was based at Manas International Airport. It likely carried aid sent from the United Arab Emirates to Chad.
