JUBA, South Sudan — The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have reportedly seized several South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) military helicopters that were being airlifted for maintenance in Tbilisi, Georgia, according to a leaked document obtained by The Juba Mirror News Desk.
The document referenced presidential approval from H.E. the President of the Republic of South Sudan and commander in chief of the SSPDF authorising the overhaul of South Sudan Air Force helicopters in Georgia. It stated that 12 dismantled helicopters were scheduled to be airlifted from Juba International Airport by a contracted company for refurbishment.
However, the aircraft, valued at millions of dollars, reportedly disappeared while under Ugandan custody during the transfer process, the document alleged.
The letter, addressed to Military Intelligence at Juba International Airport and the director of flight clearance, instructed all security organs and agencies at the airport to grant “free and unhindered access” to the contractor responsible for transporting the helicopters. It also requested that all necessary clearances be provided to facilitate the operation.
Neither the SSPDF nor Ugandan authorities have publicly commented on the reported seizure or the current location of the helicopters.
