Yei Declares Day of Mourning After Fatal Plane Crash That Killed County Officials

(YEI RIVER COUNTY, CENTRAL EQUATORIA STATE) – Authorities in Yei River County have declared a public day of mourning after a plane crash in the Luri area killed 14 people travelling to Juba.

The aircraft, operated by Citylink Aviation, went down early on Monday while en route to Juba. Officials said all 14 people on board, including the pilot, died and there were no survivors.

Those killed included men and women travelling for official duties. Among them was the county public prosecutor, identified as Charles. Authorities also confirmed that one passenger was a Kenyan national. The bodies have been transported to Juba as officials coordinate with families and relevant institutions.

County authorities have announced that Saturday 9 May 2026 will be observed as an official day of mourning. A ceremony is scheduled to take place from 10:00 to 12:00 local time at Freedom Square, where families, community members, leaders and officials are expected to gather to pay their respects.

Local officials have urged calm and unity as investigations begin. The county security coordinator said the loss had affected both the county and the wider nation and called on families to remain strong while authorities work to establish the cause of the crash.

Citylink Aviation said the incident was a shock and described it as the first fatal crash involving the company since it began operating in Yei. The company’s local manager said the aircraft had undergone routine checks before departure and no problems were reported.

She said she confirmed that conditions were normal before takeoff. When the aircraft failed to arrive in Juba, attempts were made to contact passengers but their phones could not be reached. Later information confirmed the crash in Luri and the loss of all on board.

In a condolence message, the county commissioner described the crash as a major tragedy for the people of Yei River County and Central Equatoria State and expressed sympathy to the bereaved families.

The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority is expected to lead investigations into the cause of the crash.

Officials, security representatives and community leaders attended the briefing.