Daring Rescue Mission Highlights South Sudan Crisis and Pilot’s Bravery

Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a Ukrainian helicopter pilot, faced a life-threatening rescue mission in South Sudan, resulting in gunfire and tragic casualties. Despite sustaining injuries, he managed to safely land the helicopter, but sadly lost a crew member. His experience illustrates the ongoing dangers and instability within South Sudan, amidst a looming civil conflict and the realities confronted by military operators.

Captain Serhiy Muzyka, a seasoned helicopter pilot with extensive military experience, recently engaged in a perilous rescue mission in South Sudan, marking a harrowing final deployment before retirement. Despite his prior dangerous assignments, including service in Afghanistan and rescuing crash victims in Somalia, the operation to evacuate wounded soldiers from Nasir is unequivocally his most dramatic encounter to date. A shoot-out ensued at the military base, tragically resulting in casualties, including a crew member and numerous South Sudanese soldiers.

During the chaos, Captain Muzyka sustained a gunshot wound to his arm but managed to pilot the damaged helicopter to safety. A personal video recorded in the cockpit displayed bloodied controls and a shattered windscreen, recounting his experience as akin to a cinematic ordeal. He recalled, “It was like a movie,” while still visibly shaken by the traumatic event.

This mission, contracted by the UN Mission in South Sudan, aimed to evacuate injured soldiers, including a general and two negotiators. The ongoing tensions in South Sudan are alarming, as the nation approaches the brink of another civil war. The previous conflict, which emerged three years post-independence, saw nearly 400,000 fatalities stemming from power struggles between President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar.

The uneasy relationship, rooted in mutual distrust, has persisted since a peace agreement in 2018 intended to unify military forces. Captain Muzyka and his team flew to Nasir under challenging circumstances, returning a second time after a prior successful evacuation. However, upon arrival, gunfire erupted unexpectedly, resulting in the pilot and crew realizing the perilous nature of their situation.

The attack commenced as Muzyka’s flight attendant was shot, compelling the captain to initiate an emergency take-off amidst the gunfire. He navigated the aircraft while successfully executing evasive maneuvers to avoid further fire. He noted that the helicopter’s systems were compromised, yet he kept the craft airborne by flying at low altitude to increase chances of a safe landing. The crew utilized whatever means they had to manage their injuries during the tense flight to Malakal.

Upon arrival, Captain Muzyka successfully landed the helicopter despite further mechanical issues. He expressed relief, but emotional turmoil set in as he came to terms with the loss of his colleague, who succumbed to his injuries. The United Nations later honored the Ukrainian Helicopters crew for their bravery, with the head of mission calling the attack potentially a war crime. After this life-altering incident, Muzyka returned to Ukraine for recovery while contemplating retirement but cherishing his ability to fly.

The perilous rescue mission involving Captain Serhiy Muzyka in South Sudan underscores the dangers faced by military personnel in conflict zones. The tragic events leading to casualties amongst soldiers and crew members highlight the ongoing instability in the region as the country struggles with peace and unity. As Captain Muzyka transitions to retirement, his experiences serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those in the line of duty under dire circumstances.

Original Source: www.bbc.com