Three persons have been confirmed dead in an helicopter crash which occurred at about 11.22 a.m. on Thursday.
The confirmation was made in a statement issued by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Olufemi Soneye.
He said the helicopter which had eight persons onboard, took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN.
According to him, he helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation.
Nothing has however been said about the others on board.
READ ALSO: Tinubu seeks Senate confirmation of new ministerial nominees
The NNPC Ltd spokesman gave further details in the statement which reads:
“On the 24th of October 2024, about 11:22 am, we lost contact with the Helicopter – Register Number: 5NBQG, engaged by NNPC Limited, that took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN. The helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation.
“There were 8 persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members). The appropriate authorities have been contacted, including the Ministry of Aviation, who have since issued a press statement.
“Search and rescue missions are currently ongoing. So far, three (3) bodies have been recovered.
“We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as the events unfold.
“Our prayers are with the passengers, crew and their respective families at this very difficult time.
“We will continue to do everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.”
*Editor’s Note: The image used is only an illustration and not of the reported crash.
