Helicopter crash kills 12 in Afghanistan

At least twelve people, including two Ukrainians, were killed in a Moldavian aircraft crashed in northern Afghanistan on Sunday, officials said.

An Mi-8 helicopter crashed due to ‘technical problems’ shortly after taking off in Dehdadi district, it said.

According to official reports, the helicopter was carrying 14 people including 11 member of Afghan security forces when it crashed in the northern province of Balkh.

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The two killed Ukrainians were crew members and a third Ukrainian crew member survived the crash, said officials.

According to reports, the Moldavian aircraft was carrying ammunitions and exploded on impact, burning bodies “beyond recognition”.

The helicopter belonged to a private company and had been hired by the Afghan Aviation Ministry, it said.

(With inputs from agencies)