Libyan Military Chief Killed in Devastating Turkey Plane Crash
In a deeply saddening turn of events, Lieutenant General Mohamed Al-Haddad, the esteemed army chief of Libya, has tragically died in a plane crash. The incident occurred as he was flying back to Tripoli from an official engagement in Turkey. Libya's Prime Minister, Abdulhamid al-Dbeibah, officially confirmed the news on Tuesday, describing the loss of Al-Haddad and four other individuals as a "tragic accident" during their return journey from Ankara.
The aircraft, a Falcon 50 business jet, lost contact with air traffic control shortly after its departure from Turkey’s capital. Prime Minister al-Dbeibah expressed profound sorrow in a statement, extending his heartfelt condolences to the families of all victims. He highlighted the immense tragedy this represents for both Libya and its armed forces.
Key Details of the Fatal Aircraft Incident
- Departure Point: Ankara Esenboga Airport, Turkey.
- Time of Departure: Approximately 8:10 PM local time.
- Loss of Contact: Around 8:52 PM local time, after an emergency notification.
- Reported Issue: The jet reportedly declared an electrical emergency and sought permission to return to the airport before communications ceased entirely.
- Crash Site: Debris was later located near the Haymana district, roughly 50 miles southwest of Ankara.
- Crew: The aircraft was reportedly operated by a three-person crew, all identified as French nationals.
Victims Identified in the Tragic Crash
Prime Minister al-Dbeibah also named the other prominent figures who lost their lives alongside Lt Gen Al-Haddad:
- Major General Al-Fitouri Ghreibel: Chief of Staff for Ground Forces.
- Brigadier General Mahmoud Al-Qatioui: Director of the Military Manufacturing Authority.
- Mohamed Al-Asawi Diab: An adviser to the army chief.
- Mohamed Omar Ahmed Mahjoub: A media office photographer.
Turkey Launches Full Investigation into the Crash
Turkish authorities have swiftly initiated a comprehensive investigation into the fatal crash. Turkey's Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that contact with the aircraft was lost following an emergency landing notification. Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc stated that all aspects of the incident would be meticulously examined to determine the cause.
Prior to the tragic flight, Lt Gen Al-Haddad had been an official guest in Ankara, where he was received with a formal military ceremony. He had held important discussions with General Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, Turkey's Chief of the General Staff, as part of his official visit, aimed at strengthening military ties between the two nations.
This breaking news update sends shockwaves through Libya and the international community, as investigations continue to uncover the reasons behind this devastating aircraft incident.
