UN helicopter seized by Al-Shabaab, Somali forces scour Galmudug for missing passengers

In a tense development, Somali national forces are intensifying efforts to locate passengers of a UN helicopter captured by al-Shabaab militants in the Galmugud region.

The search, underway since Wednesday night, involves engaging local communities for crucial information, according to Daud Aweis, Somalia’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism.

Eight individuals, including foreigners and a Somali citizen, were on board the emergency assistance helicopter when it made an emergency landing, likely due to mechanical issues.

The helicopter, operated by Iqarus, an organization providing medical care in conflict zones, was contracted by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM).

Aweis stated that the Somali government is yet to confirm casualties or escapes, emphasizing that the search is ongoing for all eight individuals.

The incident follows the killing of al-Shabaab leader Maalim Ayman on December 17 in a joint operation by Somali and US forces.

The UNSOM reported that the helicopter was conducting an air medical evacuation, promising to release more information as it becomes available.

The Dubai-headquartered firm operating the helicopter stated, “We are working closely with our counterparts in Somalia, and response efforts are underway.”

As the situation unfolds, concerns rise over the fate of the captured passengers, and global attention focuses on the collaborative efforts to secure their safe rescue amidst the challenging circumstances in the region.