Kansas: At least 14 people, including two senior military officers, were killed after a domestic aircraft crashed in the Kenge area of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), officials said.
The Congolese army confirmed the crash and said Military Court chief Lt Gen Mutombo Katali Tiende and Armed Forces Auditor General Lt Gen Bakumi Likulia were among those killed.
Army spokesman Maj Gen Efomi Ekenge said the two senior officers, along with 12 members of a delegation and the aircraft crew, were killed in the accident.
Conflicting reports on death toll
Aviation-related information indicated that the aircraft, bearing registration 9S-GUC, was a LET L-410 carrying 16 people — 12 passengers and four crew members. Preliminary reports suggested that there were no survivors.
The aircraft was operating on a domestic route from Ndolo Airport in Kinshasa. It reportedly crashed in the Kenge area while returning after travelling via Kikwit and Ilebo.
Crash cause under investigation
The exact cause of the crash remains unknown. Investigators are expected to examine whether mechanical failure, weather conditions, operational factors or other circumstances contributed to the accident.
Aviation records indicate that the aircraft involved was a LET L-410UVP manufactured in 1983.
Officials are expected to release further details as the investigation and identification of the victims progress.
