Libyan Army Chief Killed as Plane Crashes Near Ankara in Turkey

Libya Army Chief and Aides Die in Plane Crash / Photo File (X/@nypost )

Libya’s Chief of Army Staff, General Mohammed Ali Al-Haddad, was killed along with four companions when their aircraft crashed near Turkey’s capital, Ankara. The wreckage was discovered in the Hemana district on the outskirts of the city, confirming a tragic end to the flight.

According to Turkey’s Interior Minister, the aircraft departed Ankara’s Esenboğa Airport for Tripoli at 8:10 pm. Contact with air traffic control was lost at approximately 8:52 pm, prompting immediate concern and emergency response efforts.

Turkish media reported that the aircraft developed a technical fault shortly after takeoff. The pilot reportedly attempted to turn back toward Ankara; however, the plane crashed before it could make an emergency landing.

The aircraft was carrying five people, including Libya’s Chief of Staff. Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh officially confirmed the death of General Al-Haddad, expressing condolences to the families of the victims and the Libyan armed forces.

Reports indicate that General Mohammed Ali Al-Haddad had been on an official visit to Turkey, where he held meetings with Turkey’s Defence Minister. The fatal incident occurred during his return journey to Libya following the diplomatic engagement.

In response to the crash, Turkish authorities temporarily closed parts of the airspace around the incident area. Search and rescue teams, along with security agencies, were placed on high alert to manage the aftermath and secure the crash site. An investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident.