Helicopter Crash Claims Eight Lives Near Oil Platform, Following Search Efforts.
A tragic helicopter crash occurred off the coast of Rivers State on Thursday, 24th October 2024, claiming the lives of all eight individuals on board. The helicopter, an S76C+ with registration 5N-BQG, was owned by East Wing Aviation and was on a routine flight when it crashed into the ocean near the Mimbo platform, operated by Antan Producing Limited.
The aircraft was carrying two crew members and six passengers, all of whom are feared dead. The exact cause of the crash remains unknown, but authorities have launched an extensive search and rescue operation. The Rivers State Police Command, along with other agencies, is collaborating to recover the wreckage and locate the victims.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident and stated that efforts are underway to determine the cause of the crash. “We are working with other relevant agencies to recover the helicopter and bring closure to this unfortunate event,” she said.
In response to the incident, President Bola Tinubu has ordered military involvement to bolster investigations. He expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and emphasized the government’s commitment to uncovering the cause of the crash.
Festus Keyamo SAN, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, also confirmed the crash in a public statement, assuring Nigerians that all necessary steps are being taken to investigate the incident.
The loss of lives in this tragic crash has cast a pall over the nation, with condolences pouring in for the families of the victims.
