MOGADISHU (WDN) — A powerful explosion that rocked Mogadishu early Tuesday morning was confirmed by authorities to have been caused by the crash of a military helicopter at Aden Adde International Airport.

The helicopter reportedly belonging to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), was said to be transporting a large consignment of weapons when it experienced a technical malfunction, resulting in a crash landing that triggered a massive explosion. The blast was heard across multiple districts of the capital, initially sparking fears of a terrorist attack.

The helicopter took off from the Balidoogle military base, 100 km west of Mogadishu. Five people were killed and three others survived the crash.

Eyewitnesses described a fiery scene as the helicopter, believed to be a heavy-lift model, burst into flames upon impact. The sheer weight of the onboard munitions is said to have contributed to the severity of the explosion and the extensive structural damage to the aircraft.

Initial reports suggest the helicopter came down just outside the perimeter of Aden Adde International Airport, although some conflicting accounts place it within airport grounds.

Security officials have launched an investigation, which is currently underway.

WardheerNews