The Rivers State Police Command has reported that all eight passengers aboard the helicopter that crashed in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on October 24, 2024, may have lost their lives. Earlier reports confirmed three fatalities, but updated information indicates that none of the passengers may have survived.
The helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration 5N-BQG, operated by East Wind Aviation, took off from the Port Harcourt Military Base, intending to reach the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN oil rig. However, at approximately 11:22 a.m., the helicopter encountered difficulties and ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean.
Rescue Efforts and Search Intensification
Following the crash, President Bola Tinubu ordered an intensified search operation, directing military forces to assist in locating and rescuing the passengers. The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, led by Minister Festus Keyamo SAN, confirmed the incident and extended condolences to the victims’ families.
Furthermore, The Marine Division of the Rivers State Police Command, along with other relevant agencies, is currently working to retrieve the aircraft and passengers.
Official Police Statement
In a press statement, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, Police Public Relations Officer for Rivers State, stated:
“The Rivers State Police Command regrets to inform the public of a tragic incident that occurred today, 24th October 2024, at approximately 11 am. A helicopter with the call sign 5N-BQG, operated by East Wing Aviation, departed from the NAF Base in Port Harcourt for Nuim Antan OML123 fields, carrying two crew members and six passengers. Unfortunately, the helicopter ditched into the ocean near Antan Producing Limited’s Mimbo platform and FPSO. All eight persons onboard are feared dead.”
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