What happened
While performing a flight on behalf of the International Red Cross, a four-engine aircraft was traveling from Kuito to Benguela. During the climb to an altitude of 12,000 feet, the aircraft was struck by a surface-to-air missile that impacted engine number three. Following the strike, the plane entered a steep dive and crashed near the village of Cancao, situated approximately 40 km west of Kuito.
The impact caused the aircraft to disintegrate upon hitting the ground, resulting in the destruction of at least eight residential structures. The accident resulted in eight fatalities, comprising all six people on board the aircraft and two individuals located on the ground.
Findings
Investigations concluded that the aircraft was hit by a surface-to-air missile. While the destruction of the plane is confirmed, the specific type of weaponry used and the identity of those responsible for the launch have not been determined.