13 killed, including three officers, in Congo military plane crash

Thirteen people, including three army officers, were killed on Friday after a military aircraft crashed in the Democratic Republic of Congo following a technical problem.

According to Reuters, the aircraft was travelling from Kikwit to the capital, Kinshasa, when it developed a fault and attempted to land in Kenge, Kwango province.

Vice Governor Remy Saki Bokinda said the aircraft crashed into a residential plot because Kenge had no available landing strip.

Among those aboard was General Likulia Bakumi, the army’s auditor general, alongside a major, captain, other military personnel and civilians.

Officials said 12 victims were burned beyond recognition, while the pilot’s body was recovered outside the aircraft.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the crash.