The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) says not all the corpses of the victim’s of Thursday’s ill-fated helicopter crash have been retrieved.
Daily Trust had reported how a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter with registration number 5NBQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation, crashed on its way to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN.
There were 8 persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members).
Giving an update on Sunday, Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd, said, “NNPC Ltd. wishes to announce that beyond the three bodies found in the ill-fated helicopter operated by East Winds Aviation that crashed on Thursday in Port Harcourt, no other bodies have been recovered.
“The Company further notes that intensified search and rescue operations for the remaining bodies along with relevant authorities is still ongoing. Once again, our hearts and prayers are with family members of this unfortunate incident.”
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) had earlier provided an update on the crash, saying no debris had been found yet.
In a statement by Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the Bureau, stated that on the morning of October 25, 2024, at 07:30 AM local time, rescue teams resumed search operations in line with global best practices.
According to the bureau, the search area was expanded as part of ongoing efforts to locate debris or signs of survivors.
The statement added, “A team of NSIB Aviation Safety Investigators and Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development representatives arrived at the Nuim Antan facility at 11:30 AM local time.
“Investigators conducted interviews with relevant staff to gather information pertinent to the ongoing investigation.
“The investigative team completed their on-site interviews and departed the FPSO by 3:24 PM.
“At approximately 6:15 PM, search operations were suspended due to diminishing daylight. Unfortunately, no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during the day’s search.
“However, the divers successfully established a secured diving perimeter at an expected location of the wreck, which will guide the operations planned for tomorrow (today).
“The perimeter depth has been measured at 40-50 meters, and additional diving equipment and resources will be deployed to aid in the continuation of these efforts.”
Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., in the statement said, “We acknowledge the tireless efforts of the amalgamated rescue teams and supporting partners.
“We will continue these operations with every resource necessary and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.
“The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau remains committed to providing timely updates as the investigation advances and to conducting a thorough and transparent analysis of the incident. Further details will be released as they become available.”
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