SLAF Crew Evacuates Wounded Under Fire in Zemio

COLOMBO (News 1st); In a remarkable display of precision, courage, and coordination, the Sri Lanka Air Force Aviation Unit operating under the United Nations mandate in Bria, in the Central African Republic, successfully completed a high-risk Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) mission on June 14, 2025.

The operation was conducted in the volatile region of Zemio, where three UN personnel were critically wounded in combat.

The mission was carried out using an Mi-17 helicopter (UNO 326P), with Wing Commander Ishan Thibbotumunuwe serving as the mission commander and pilot, supported by Wing Commander Nadun Deneththi as co-pilot.

The aircrew included Flight Sergeant Chandana AMG, Sergeant Perera GGPK, Corporal Weerasinghe KPS, and Corporal Rodrigo DVMP.

The extraction site in Zemio posed significant operational challenges.

The crew faced extreme dust conditions, a rapidly evolving tactical threat, and the need for a precision landing in a hostile environment.

The situation was further complicated by adverse weather and the requirement for a night-time extraction, necessitating the use of Night Vision Goggles (NVG) to ensure safe navigation and landing.

Despite these formidable obstacles, the mission was executed with flawless precision. The total flight time was 3 hours and 50 minutes, during which the crew demonstrated exceptional professionalism and resilience.

Thanks to the swift coordination between the aircrew and ground support teams, all three casualties were safely evacuated and transported to Bria for further medical treatment. 

Note: Images From Sri Lanka Air Force