In an unfortunate incident, a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) MI-35P helicopter crash-landed in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers state, on Friday morning.
According to the NAF spokesperson, Edward Gabkwet, the crash occurred around 7:45 am shortly after the helicopter took off for an operation against economic saboteurs in Rivers state.
Despite the intensity of the crash, all five crew members on board survived with minor injuries. Gabkwet provided reassurance, stating:
“Fortunately, the entire crew of 5 survived the crash with very minor injuries and are currently being attended to at NAF Medical Centre Port Harcourt.”
The injured crew members were swiftly moved to the NAF Medical Centre in Port Harcourt for medical attention.
Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, is en route to Port Harcourt to assess the situation firsthand and ensure the well-being of the crew. Gabkwet emphasized the inherent risks and challenges associated with military flying, acknowledging the dedication and resilience of NAF pilots and technicians in their efforts to defend the nation and combat criminal activities.
“This incident of this nature is yet again a grim reminder of the dangers associated with military flying and the risks NAF pilots and technicians experience in their onerous tasks of defending our nation and deterring criminal elements from their nefarious activities.”
