The first phase of an investigation into the crash of a UN helicopter has found that it was shot down.

It happened near Bentiu last month. The UNMISS report states it is still investigating who shot down the helicopter.

UNMISS says before the crash, a commander of the SPLA in Opposition alleged that UNMISS aircraft were being used to transport SPLA troops.

“During a phone call with a Mission’s  staff member in Bentiu on 17 August, Peter Gadet, the commander of opposition forces in Unity State, alleged that UNMISS aircraft were being used to transport SPLA troops and threatened to shoot down the Mission’s aircraft,” read the report.

In a statement, UNMISS says the commander, Peter Gatdet, threatened to shoot down the aircraft.

It says a technical investigation to international air safety standards, will determine the source of the ground fire which brought down the helicopter.

“A more in-depth technical investigation which is being conducted in compliance with international air safety standards, and an independent Board of Inquiry being established by the United Nations to look into the incident, should provide additional information which will make it possible to conclusively determine the source of the ground fire which brought down the helicopter,” it said.

Three Russian crew members died and another was injured in the crash.

UNMISS condemns the attack on its personnel and aircraft, saying those responsible must be held accountable.