Nigerian Air force helicopter Crashlands in Port Harcourt
A Nigerian Air Force helicopter crash-landed and exploded at the NAF Base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Friday. The confirmation of the incident came through a statement from the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet.
According to Gabkwet, the NAF MI-35P had taken off for an operation against oil theft perpetrators in Rivers State.
Gabkwet disclosed that all five persons on board survived the crash, sustaining only minor injuries. The statement reported the incident, saying, “A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) MI-35P helicopter has crashed at Port Harcourt today, December 1, 2023.
The unfortunate incident occurred at about 7.45 am shortly after the aircraft took off for an operation against economic saboteurs in Rivers State.”Fortunately, the entire crew is reported to have survived with minor injuries and is currently receiving medical attention at NAF Medical Centre Port Harcourt.
Gabkwet emphasized the inherent risks associated with military flying, acknowledging the challenges faced by NAF pilots and technicians in their crucial roles of defending the nation and combating criminal activities.The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, was reported to be en route to the crash site to assess the situation and ensure the wellbeing of the crew.
The statement concluded, “The Chief of Air Staff is currently en route to Port Harcourt to assess the situation for himself, see to the wellbeing of the crew, and give further directives.” Although the cause of the crash remains unknown, the incident reportedly occurred around 7:50 am.
Credit/ Arise Tv