A Sudanese military aircraft crashed in Omdurman on Tuesday, killing 19 people and intensifying fears about Sudan’s spiraling civil war. The Antonov plane went down shortly after takeoff from Wadi Sayidna air base, striking a civilian home in Karrari district. Military officials confirmed fatalities among armed forces personnel and civilians but withheld exact figures.
The health ministry reported 19 bodies transferred to Nau hospital, alongside five injured civilians—including two children. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as rescue teams combed debris near Khartoum’s sister city. “This tragedy underscores the war’s relentless toll on innocent lives,” stated a local aid worker, requesting anonymity due to security concerns.
Sudan’s conflict has displaced over 10 million and triggered atrocities labeled as war crimes by the UN.
Key details:
- Crash occurred during takeoff from military airbase
- 19 confirmed dead, including civilians on the ground
- RSF paramilitary claims earlier aircraft downing in Darfur
Sudan’s civil war erupted in 2023 between the national army and Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group accused of ethnically driven massacres in Darfur. Recent military gains by government troops have failed to stem violence, with the RSF still controlling most of Darfur. The UN warns of potential famine as fighting disrupts aid routes.
Tuesday’s crash follows RSF claims of shooting down a government plane in Nyala, South Darfur, though verification remains challenging amid communication blackouts. Aviation experts note Sudan’s aging military fleet, strained by prolonged conflict, heightens accident risks.
International responses remain muted despite escalating humanitarian needs. Omdurman residents describe living under constant threat: “We’re trapped between airstrikes and street battles,” shared a teacher via encrypted message. With peace talks stalled, analysts predict further military confrontations and civilian suffering.
