Accident Details
An aircraft on approach to Sara Kawa Airport nosed down at an altitude of 50 meters and crashed approximately 800 meters short of the runway threshold. The impact killed both pilots and four passengers. Among the 13 injured occupants were the President of the Togolese Republic, Gnassingbé Éyadéma, and several high-ranking military officers.
Investigation and Probable Cause
The official investigation into the accident did not determine a specific cause. However, the Togolese Presidency stated that it did not rule out the possibility of sabotage. No further details regarding potential mechanical failure, human error, or environmental factors were released.
Aftermath
The incident occurred during a flight carrying the head of state and senior officials. Emergency services responded to the crash site near the airport. The injured were transported for medical treatment. The accident raised concerns about aviation safety in the region, but no additional measures were announced in the immediate aftermath.