Daring Rescue Operation: Captain Muzyka’s Life-Threatening Mission in South Sudan

Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a helicopter pilot, recalls a harrowing UN mission in South Sudan that turned deadly during a routine evacuation operation. Faced with gunfire, he and his crew navigated the dangerous scenario, resulting in injuries and the tragic loss of a colleague. Despite the chaos, they persevered to achieve a safe landing, emphasizing the dangers of humanitarian missions in conflict zones.

Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a seasoned helicopter pilot with a background in the Soviet army, recently found himself amidst turmoil in South Sudan during a UN mission. At 60 years old, he had hoped for a peaceful retirement but instead participated in one of the most harrowing incidents of his career, as a simple evacuation turned perilous in Nasir, Upper Nile State.

Despite two decades as a soldier and experience in numerous conflict zones, the operation to evacuate wounded soldiers on March 7 became a critical test of Muzyka’s skills and composure. During the shoot-out, he sustained injuries while attempting to safely navigate his crew and passengers away from danger, ultimately proving instrumental in their survival.

After successfully extracting two UN negotiators and six soldiers, including a general, chaos erupted when gunfire erupted at the military base. Muzyka’s flight attendant, Sergii Prykhodko, was shot, alongside multiple soldiers outside the helicopter. In the chaos, Muzyka demonstrated remarkable composure as he initiated take-off under fire, despite sustaining gunshot wounds to his arm, which he managed to bandage while flying.

With an urgent need to reach Malakal airport, approximately one hour away, Muzyka flew low and fast to minimize risk, navigating through damaged systems and ongoing threats. The strategic movements allowed them to evade further attacks and reach safety after 49 minutes of flight, albeit with more than 20 bullet holes in the helicopter.

Upon landing, the crew faced the grim reality of their circumstances—Prykhodko could not be saved, a tragic toll of the mission. The crew received accolades for their bravery, including the UN medal of honour, amid growing concerns for their families amidst ongoing conflicts in Ukraine. Muzyka expressed a desire for peace and a return to normalcy, reflecting on the heavy burden of loss and the pressing situation back home.

Captain Muzyka’s experience in South Sudan highlights the risks faced by those in conflict zones, especially during humanitarian missions. The tragic loss of his colleague underscores the dangers present in such operations. Despite the challenges, the bravery displayed by the crew is commendable, and their return highlights the ongoing need for global attention to conflicts impacting communities worldwide.

Original Source: www.bbc.com