August M
In one of the world’s most fragile states, the line between military operations and business is increasingly blurred. New reports suggest armed groups are filling gaps left by weak infrastructure, offering services usually associated with civilian authorities.
The development highlights how security contractors are embedding themselves ever deeper into daily life.
Helicopters for hire
According to reporting by TVP World, Russian mercenaries linked to the Wagner Group have begun operating an informal air transport service in the Central African Republic (CAR).
Using military helicopters, they are flying paying civilians between the capital Bangui and remote towns in the north and east of the country.
Locals have dubbed the operation “Air Wagner”. Central African media and residents say the helicopters, crews and equipment come from Wagner’s military assets.
Fuel, maintenance and logistics are reportedly paid for by the Central African state, while Wagner keeps the revenue from ticket sales.
Routes and prices
The helicopters serve towns that are difficult to reach by road due to insecurity and poor infrastructure. Routes include Sam Ouandja, near the border with Sudan, and Zemio, close to South Sudan.
Fares are high by local standards. Flights to Sam Ouandja reportedly cost more than $170, while trips to Zemio can reach around $230.
Demand has grown as air travel is often the only viable option for civilians seeking to reach these isolated areas, TVPWorld reports.
A growing footprint
According to TVPWorld, the flights add to a wider commercial presence Wagner has built in the Central African Republic since 2018.
That year, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra invited the group to help fight rebel forces controlling large parts of the country.
Since then, United Nations experts and non-governmental investigators have accused Wagner of profiting from gold and diamond mining, timber exports and other businesses operating largely outside state oversight.
They have also documented allegations of serious human rights abuses against civilians, which Wagner has previously denied.
Fragile state
The Central African Republic is one of the world’s poorest countries and has faced chronic instability since 2012.
Armed groups still control large areas of territory, and infrastructure outside the capital remains severely degraded.
Wagner was founded by Yevgeny Prigozhin, who died in a plane crash in Russia in 2023.
Despite upheaval after his death, Wagner-linked forces have continued operating across parts of Africa, presenting themselves as security partners to vulnerable governments while securing access to profitable resources.
Sources. TVP World
