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Armed Stowaway Arrested After Attempted Hijacking of Samaritan’s Purse Aid Flight in South Sudan

Authorities have opened an inquiry into the boarding breach, with the aid group reassessing security after a recent fatal charter crash.

Overview

  • The Cessna Grand Caravan departed Juba carrying medical supplies to Maiwut with a pilot and one Samaritan’s Purse staff member on board.
  • Police identified the suspect as Yasir Mohammed Yusuf, who they say hid in the rear cabin before takeoff.
  • Authorities said the gunman forced the pilot to circle for hours and demanded to be flown to Chad.
  • The pilot diverted to Wau to refuel, where security forces arrested the suspect without any serious injuries reported.
  • Officials are examining reports that the man wore a reflective vest bearing a charter operator’s logo, which the company says does not match any employee.