The Search and Recovery Team involved in the rescue operation of the victims of the helicopter that crashed in Port Harcourt, Rivers State has finally located the wreckage of the ill-fated helicopter.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) stated this in a release by its Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, late Thursday night.
Recall that the helicopter, operated by East Winds Aviation, carrying eight individuals onboard, unfortunately crashed into the Atlantic Ocean, near Bonny Finima on 24 October, 2024.
NSIB, in an update on the rescue and investigation efforts, disclosed that the Search and Recovery Team located the wreckage of the ill-fated Sikorsky SK76 Helicopter during the recovery drives on Wednesday night.
The Bureau also stated that efforts were currently underway for the recovery of the helicopter’s wreckage.
NSIB announced in the release that the allied team and partners leading the charge for the search and recovery efforts of the ditched Sikorsky SK76 Helicopter, registration 5N BQG, have located its wreckage.
As stated in the release, the wreckage was identified during the recovery dives, Thursday night, approximately 0.775 nautical miles from the FPSO Adoon.
“It was located at a depth of 42 meters, with coordinates registered at Latitude 04° 13.634′ N and Longitude 008° 19.442′ E. Efforts are currently underway for the recovery of the helicopter’s wreckage.
“The tail boom of the helicopter has already been successfully retrieved and lifted from the water today,” it was added in the release.
Director General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., commended the allied team and partners leading the search and recovery efforts.
“Locating the wreckage is a critical milestone in our efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.
“The dedication and cooperation shown by all involved parties have been exceptional, and we are determined to conduct a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure to the families of those affected,” he stated.
It was disclosed that further recovery efforts for the wreckage are underway, even as the Bureau assured of provision of additional updates on the sad occurrence as they become available.
NSIB also reassured of its commitment to working closely with national and international partners to carry out the recovery and investigative process in line with its mandate to enhance transportation safety in Nigeria.
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