Sudan's RSF Mistakenly Shoots Down UAE-Linked Il-76 Cargo Plane, Killing Russian Crew

Oct 21, 2024, 05:09 PM

On October 21, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan reportedly shot down a cargo plane in the Malha region of North Darfur. The RSF claimed they had targeted an enemy bomber used by the Sudanese army. However, the downed aircraft was identified as an Ilyushin Il-76T, registered as EX-76011, connected to 'Airline Transport Incorporation FZC,' a UAE-based company with ties to Kyrgyzstan. Reports suggest the plane, possibly linked to 'New Way Cargo,' was delivering military aid to the RSF, raising the possibility of a friendly fire incident. At least one Russian citizen was killed in the crash, and the Russian Embassy in Sudan is investigating. The plane crashed near Al-Makhla in an area engulfed in conflict.