A humanitarian flight operating a domestic route was forced to divert to the city of Wau on December 2, 2025, after being hijacked mid-flight. The incident ended without casualties thanks to the intervention of security forces.

Details of the incident

According to local media reports, including Hot Juba , the aircraft belongs to the American NGO Samaritan's Purse and was carrying supplies destined for Maiwut.

1. The hijacking: The plane was targeted by an armed man of South Sudanese nationality . The hijacker reportedly demanded that the aircraft change course and head towards Chad.
2. Pilot's strategy: The pilot reportedly circled for nearly an hour, successfully convincing the hijacker that the plane did not have enough fuel to reach Chad. The suspect finally agreed to a refueling landing in Wau.
3. Outcome: Once the aircraft was immobilized at Wau Airport, security forces intervened and apprehended the suspect without incident or resistance. The pilot and two passengers were recovered safe and sound.

Official confirmation and ongoing investigation

The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) confirmed the diversion, stating that the plane landed safely in Wau.

In a statement, spokesman David Loputu Paulino praised the effective coordination between the crew, airport authorities and security forces, which enabled the situation to be brought under control quickly.

A joint investigation is underway, led by the SSCAA and security services, to determine the exact circumstances of the incident. The Authority has urged the public and the media to exercise caution and rely only on official information, promising regular updates.