The military helicopter that crashed in Fort Portal likely suffered a mechanical malfunction.
The MI-24 helicopter crashed into a house near Saaka Airfield at 9 a.m.
Major Peter Mugisa, the Mountain Division Spokesperson said that the helicopter which was being manned by two UPDF soldiers was on an operation when it developed a mechanical problem. He says that investigators will inquire into whether human error or environmental factors contributed to the crash.
Peruce Kabarwani, whose house was destroyed, says that she was in her house when she heard a loud bang and when she moved out, she found the helicopter had crashed into a section of her house.
According to Kabarwani, due to fear, her blood pressure rose, and was rushed to a nearby Health facility.
Her daughter Mary Mbabazi, says that this is not the first time helicopters are destroying their property. She says that in December, an army helicopter that was taking off from Saaka Airfield blew off several roofs. She wants the government to help them relocate from the place.
Jeruress Isingoma who lives near the airfield says that when they complain to the authorities, they are told to relocate, yet they have nowhere else to go.
Major Mugisa said that UPDF will renovate the damaged house.
This is not the first time UPDF helicopters are crashing. Last year, a military helicopter crashed close to Entebbe International Airport, killing Capt Carol Busingye.
In 2020, Maj Naome Karungi and Cadet Pilot Benon Wakalo perished in another Jet Ranger crash in Butambala. However, the military has never released to the public the findings of investigations into the two incidents.
