MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – A United Nations-contracted helicopter reportedly made an emergency landing in the town of Hiindhere, a key Al-Shabaab stronghold in the Galgadud region of central Somalia, Mogadishu-based Kulmiye Radio reported on Monday.
The aircraft, which is believed to have suffered a technical malfunction, fell into the hands of the militant group along with its crew and cargo. The United Nations, the Somali federal government, and Al-Shabaab have not yet issued any official confirmation regarding the incident.
Details surrounding the aircraft – including the number of passengers and crew members onboard, as well as the nature of the cargo – remain unclear. Preliminary reports indicate that the helicopter had taken off from Baladweyne in Hiran region and was en route to Wisil in Mudug region when it encountered difficulties.
This incident comes just a year after another UN-chartered aircraft crash-landed in the same general area in January 2024. That aircraft, along with its crew, passengers, and a shipment of medical supplies, also fell under the control of Al-Shabaab. Since that crash, there have been no updates on the status or whereabouts of those onboard.
The recurrence of such incidents in militant-controlled territories has raised concerns about the security of UN operations in Somalia, especially in regions with limited or no government control.
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