Bria:Central African Republic The Sri Lanka Air Force Aviation Unit successfully executed a high-risk hostage rescue operation in the Central African Republic on October 19, 2026. The mission resulted in the safe recovery of three civilians who had been held hostage for over eight months.
According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the operation was conducted approximately 210 nautical miles from the Sri Lanka Aviation Unit in Bria and more than 60 nautical miles from the nearest United Nations base. The mission faced challenges due to the unsecured area dominated by armed groups. It involved three Mi-17 helicopters, an Aero Medical Evacuation Team, a high-level negotiation team, and 45 armed troops. The operation was overseen directly by higher authorities at the Force Headquarters due to its complexity and confidentiality.
The mission was classified as extremely time-sensitive and high-risk, with potential threats from armed groups necessitating a negotiation and rescue timeframe of just five minutes. The operational plan included maintaining surprise and ensuring the safe insertion and extraction of the teams involved. Despite a restricted landing zone and severe environmental conditions, the mission was coordinated by Contingent Commander Group Captain Asiri Pathirage.
The operation commenced early morning, involving aircraft from separate locations and taking different routes to maintain secrecy. The first helicopter, ‘Rawana 1,’ secured the landing zone, while ‘Rawana 3’ provided reinforcement support. ‘Rawana 2’ transported the negotiation team and medical personnel, remaining ready for emergency extraction.
After successful negotiations, the hostages were evacuated, with all helicopters returning safely without incident. The operation exceeded the planned time, with the team spending 50 minutes at the site, supported by a comprehensive security and aviation plan.
The mission showcased the expertise of the Sri Lanka Aviation Unit, highlighting the professionalism and teamwork of the Sri Lanka Air Force under the United Nations mandate in the Central African Republic.