Russian Cargo Plane Downed in Sudan: RSF Claims Responsibility, Alleges Egyptian Involvement
Staff Editor Russia Investigates Reports of Cargo Plane Shot Down in Sudan’s Darfur Region
The Russian embassy in Sudan has launched an investigation into reports that a cargo plane with a Russian crew was shot down in the Darfur region of Sudan. The aircraft, identified as a Russian-made Ilyushin Il-76, was reportedly delivering equipment and medicine to el-Fasher, a city currently held by the Sudanese army.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group engaged in conflict with Sudan’s military, claimed responsibility for downing a Russian-made plane. The RSF accused the aircraft of being operated by the Egyptian military and bombing civilians. However, Egypt has denied providing any military support to Sudan’s army.
This incident occurred against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF, which began in April 2023. The United Nations estimates that over 10 million people have been displaced due to the fighting, with potential casualties reaching up to 150,000.
According to initial reports, all crew members aboard the plane, including three Sudanese and two Russians, are believed to have perished in the crash. The incident reportedly took place in the Malha area, near the Chad border, as the aircraft was en route to el-Fasher.
The RSF claims to have recovered the plane’s black box and related documents. Viral footage circulating on social media appears to show RSF soldiers with identification documents near the crash site.
BBC Verify has found documents related to one individual, including a Russian passport and South African driving licenses. A video also shows a fighter holding a Russian currency note, though the authenticity of this footage remains unverified.
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the cause of the crash. While some sources suggest a technical fault, others claim the plane was shot down or mistakenly targeted. Documents indicate that the aircraft may have been linked to an airline previously associated with the United Arab Emirates, which has denied arming the RSF.
The incident occurred as diplomatic efforts to cease hostilities between the army and RSF have stalled. Fighting has intensified around Khartoum, which is largely controlled by the RSF, with increased military airstrikes reported.
As the investigation continues, this event underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where civilians face displacement, hunger, and the devastating effects of prolonged conflict.
