A plane operated by the North Carolina-based nonprofit Samaritan’s Purse was hijacked during a medical supply delivery in South Sudan on Tuesday. The organization confirmed the incident, stating that the Caravan airplane was en route to a mobile medical unit located in Maiwut when the hijacking occurred.
Despite the alarming situation, the pilot managed to land the aircraft safely in Wau, which is approximately 400 miles from its intended destination. Upon landing, the armed hijacker was apprehended by the National Security Service of South Sudan.
A representative from Samaritan’s Purse expressed gratitude that no serious injuries occurred during the incident and commended the swift action of local security forces in managing the situation and ensuring a safe resolution. At the time of the hijacking, the airplane was occupied by both the pilot and a staff member of the nonprofit.
Samaritan’s Purse is a well-known Christian organization based in Boone, North Carolina, and is led by Franklin Graham, the son of the renowned evangelist Billy Graham. The organization is committed to providing relief and ministry efforts across the globe, highlighting their dedication to humanitarian work even in challenging situations.
This incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by aid organizations working in conflict zones, but it also highlights the resilience and support systems that exist in the region, ensuring that such cases can be managed effectively and safely.