By: Ayooluwa Ayobami
Over 48 hours after a tragic helicopter crash in the Port Harcourt area of Rivers State, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has reported that neither the wreckage nor the three missing individuals have been located.
In a statement on Saturday, Bimbo Oladeji, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the NSIB, noted that search teams resumed operations at 7:30 AM local time.
However, they left the site later that day without any findings.
The bureau has expanded the search area as part of ongoing efforts to uncover debris or any signs of survivors.
The incident involved a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registered as 5NBQG, which was operated by Eastwind Aviation and was en route to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN. At the time of the crash, there were eight people on board, including six passengers and two crew members.
The NSIB has initiated an investigation into the incident and continues to conduct rescue operations in hopes of finding survivors.
The statement reads partly, “On the morning of October 25, 2024, at 07:30 AM local time, rescue teams resumed search operations. The search area was expanded as part of ongoing efforts to locate debris or signs of survivors.
“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.
“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.”
Olajide while quoting the Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh, 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.”
