Sudan's RSF Mistakenly Downs Il-76 Supply Plane Near Al-Malha, Killing Russian Crew

Oct 21, 2024, 05:41 PM

On October 21, the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces (RSF) reportedly shot down an Ilyushin Il-76 cargo plane near Al-Malha in North Darfur, mistaking it for a Sudanese military bomber. The aircraft, possibly registered as EX-76011, was linked to Airline Transport Incorporation FZC, a UAE-based company with ties to Kyrgyzstan. The plane was delivering military aid, including weapons, to the RSF itself. Documents and passports belonging to Russian crew members were found at the crash site, and at least one Russian citizen was killed in the incident. The RSF claimed responsibility but appeared unaware they had targeted their own supply plane. The Russian Embassy in Sudan confirmed they are investigating the incident.