ATHENS: A Bosnia helicopter crash involving an Italian military aircraft serving with the European Union’s peacekeeping mission has killed four people and injured 11 others, Italy’s Defence Ministry confirmed on Thursday.
According to the ministry, two of those killed were members of the Italian Army, while the other two belonged to the Italian Red Cross’s Volunteer Military Corps. A total of 15 people were aboard the helicopter when it crashed.
All 11 injured individuals are receiving medical treatment, and none is reported to be in a life-threatening condition, the ministry said.
Bosnia Helicopter Crash: Investigation Underway to Determine Cause
The cause of the crash remains unknown, and an investigation has been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to Italy’s ANSA news agency, the helicopter crashed in the village of Gorice in the Brcko district. Images published by local media showed a military transport helicopter overturned on the ground and broken into pieces.
The aircraft was deployed as part of Operation Althea, the European Union Force (EUFOR) mission responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement.
Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended condolences to the families of those killed, as well as to the entire defence establishment.
He described the incident as an immense tragedy, saying that no words could ease such a profound loss.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also expressed condolences in a message posted on X, saying her thoughts were with the victims, their families, and everyone involved in the mission to promote peace and stability in the region.
