On Friday, March 7, President Kiir, in his address addressing the situation in Upper Nile State, had reported that a plane had crash-landed in Malakal, killing all passengers on board, following a tragic rescue mission.

However, in a statement released on Saturday, March 8, the Office of the President clarified that both planes involved in the operation had indeed landed safely in Malakal. Contrary to earlier reports, the passengers—some of whom sustained injuries—are alive and receiving medical care.

The statement further confirmed that the second plane, which had been previously unaccounted for, also landed safely. Unfortunately, two crew members were injured, and one crew member tragically succumbed to gunshot wounds during the incident.

“His Excellency, would like to inform the public that the two planes involved in the rescue operation landed safely in Malakal. The (number) passengers that were on board, some of them, sustained injuries and did not perish as stated earlier,” stated the statement.

“The second plane, whose whereabouts were unknown, landed safely, two crew members sustained injuries and one crew member succumbed to gunshot wounds.”

“His Excellency the President wishes the wounded soldiers and the crew members speedy recovery and thanks the nation for keeping peace.”

President Kiir wished the wounded soldiers and crew members a speedy recovery and expressed gratitude to the nation for its ongoing commitment to peace.

The President urged South Sudanese to remain united in these challenging times, emphasizing the need for stability, particularly in Upper Nile State, as the nation faces these difficult circumstances.

For its part, UNMISS confirmed that both UN helicopters landed safely in Malakal, Upper Nile State, and the two injured crew are in stable condition receiving medical care.