A tragic incident occurred on Tuesday morning, May 14th, when a two-seater surveillance aircraft crashed within Zakouma National Park in Salamat Province, southeastern Chad, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.
The aircraft, belonging to the conservation non-governmental organization African Parks, crashed while undertaking a routine ecological monitoring mission over the protected area, known for its rich biodiversity.
The two individuals on board were a South African pilot and a Chadian officer responsible for monitoring the recently reintroduced black rhino population within the park. Both individuals tragically perished in the crash.
The cause of the accident is currently undetermined. A team of investigators comprising members of the Judicial Police and civil aviation authorities has been deployed to the crash site to conduct preliminary inquiries and initiate a comprehensive technical investigation. This tragedy represents a significant loss for conservation initiatives in the region, as Zakouma National Park has become a symbol of Chadian wildlife recovery, particularly with the successful return of rhinos after a century-long absence. African Parks, in partnership with the Chadian government, expressed its profound sadness and announced that a tribute to the two victims will be held in the coming days.
CA/te/Sf/fss/abj/APA