A fatal aircraft crash near Kenge in DR Congo claimed the lives of two senior military justice officials and others aboard.
President Félix Tshisekedi orders an investigation after a Let L-410 crashes near Kenge, killing everyone aboard, including two military justice chiefs.
At least 14 people died after a Let L-410 aircraft crashed near Kenge in Kwango Province, Democratic Republic of Congo, on Friday, September 25, 2026.
The aircraft was travelling from Kikwit to Kinshasa when it reportedly developed technical problems during the flight.
The crew reportedly attempted to land at Kenge’s old airstrip before the aircraft crashed in the Manzawu residential area.
Authorities confirmed that everyone on board died in the accident.
Initial reports placed the death toll at 13. Later reports increased the number to 14.
Despite crashing near residential homes, the aircraft did not injure or kill anyone on the ground.
Military justice chiefs among the victims
The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) confirmed the deaths of Lieutenant General Mutombo Katalayi Tiende Joseph and Lieutenant General Likulia Bakumi.
Both officers held senior positions within the country’s military justice system.
Mutombo served as the First President of the High Military Court.
Likulia held the position of Auditor General of the FARDC.
The military also confirmed the deaths of other members of the delegation and the flight crew.
In a statement, FARDC expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the crash.
Reported technical problems before attempted landing
Early reports indicate that the aircraft experienced technical difficulties while travelling from Kikwit to Kinshasa.
The crew then reportedly tried to divert to Kenge’s old airstrip.
The aircraft crashed before completing the landing.
Investigators have not yet determined the exact cause of the accident.
Authorities continue to treat reports of technical problems as preliminary information.
Investigators will examine the aircraft’s condition, flight records and other relevant evidence.
Residents in Manzawu also expressed concern after the aircraft came down near homes.
However, emergency officials reported no casualties among people on the ground.
Tshisekedi orders investigation
President Félix Tshisekedi expressed sorrow following the tragedy.
He extended his condolences to the victims’ families and members of the FARDC.
Tshisekedi also ordered a full investigation into the crash.
Authorities will examine the reported technical difficulties and the attempted landing at Kenge’s old airstrip.
Investigators will also review all circumstances surrounding the flight.
The inquiry aims to establish what caused the aircraft to crash.
Until investigators complete their work, officials continue to treat the reported sequence of events as preliminary findings.
