A tragic plane crash in South Sudan has left 20 oil workers dead, with authorities confirming that only one individual survived the incident. The aircraft, operated by Light Air Services Aviation Company, crashed three minutes after take-off on Wednesday morning near the oil fields in Unity State, according to Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol.

Among those who perished were five foreign nationals: two from China, one from India, and two Ugandan crew members. The remaining victims were South Sudanese citizens, all working for the Greater Pioneer Company (GPOC), a consortium involving state-owned oil firms from India, China, Malaysia, and South Sudan.

While the cause of the crash has not yet been established, an investigation is underway. "Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those on board during this incredibly difficult time," stated Minister Chol.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding aviation safety in South Sudan, where infrastructure is underdeveloped and air accidents occur frequently, often attributed to aircraft overloading or adverse weather conditions. Just two years prior, another crash involving a cargo plane resulted in five fatalities, marking this latest tragedy as a brutal reminder of the risks associated with air travel in the region.