20 killed in plane crash in South Sudan

At least 20 people have been confirmed dead and one remains in critical condition following a plane crash in South Sudan, reported Xinhua.

The flight was transporting passengers from Unity State to Juba, the capital of South Sudan, with 21 people on board, Unity State Minister of Information and Communication Gatwech Bipal told Xinhua over the phone on Wednesday.

"Today at 10:30 a.m. (0830 GMT), a plane crashed at Unity oil field airport. 21 people were on board, including the crew," said Bipal, adding that 20 people are now confirmed dead and one survivor is in critical condition.

South Sudan has not disclosed more relevant information. Rescue operations and accident investigations are ongoing.

Meanwhile, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir has ordered an investigation into a plane crash.

Among the killed were South Sudanese, two Chinese nationals and one Indian.

"In the wake of this tragic incident, I have directed the Ministry of Transport and all relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and swift investigation to determine the cause of the crash and give answers to the grieving families," Kiir said in a TV address.

The president sent his condolences to the bereaved families and his sympathies to all those affected by the tragedy.

"Let us come together as a nation to support the grieving families and honor the memory of those we have lost in this tragedy," he said, adding that the deceased were dedicated to the progress of South Sudan and the country will feel their loss.