In a tragic incident that has left the nation in mourning, a plane crash in South Sudan has claimed the lives of 20 oil workers, with only one survivor emerging from the wreck. The small aircraft, which is operated by Light Air Services Aviation Company, was en route to Juba, the capital city of South Sudan, when it went down just three minutes after takeoff from Unity oilfield.
The victims of this disastrous event included two Chinese nationals, one Indian, and two Ugandan crew members, alongside 15 South Sudanese workers, all men employed by the Greater Pioneer Company (GPOC). GPOC is a joint venture which involves state-owned oil companies from India, China, Malaysia, plus South Sudan and the deceased were engaged in what was intended to be a routine exploration mission.
Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol has since expressed his deep condolences, stating, "Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those on board during this incredibly difficult time." The acting director of Juba International Airport, Saleh Akot, confirmed the incident, noting the plane's-chartered flight had crashed shortly after departing.
Air travel in the region has faced scrutiny in the past due to previous accidents which often attributed to factors such as aircraft overloading and unfavorable weather conditions.
Investigations into the cause of this recent crash have begun as the nation collectively grieves for those lost and hopes for the swift recovery of the sole survivor.
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