Tragedy Strikes as Nigerian Air Force Helicopter Crashes in Port Harcourt
In a harrowing incident on Friday, a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) helicopter crash-landed and exploded at the NAF Base in Port Harcourt. The occurrence, which transpired around 7.50 am, left eyewitnesses in shock.
A resident near the NAF Base recounted, “I was inside my apartment when I heard this thunderous sound at the NAF Base. The next thing I saw was a thick flame. I don’t know if there are casualties because I can’t go close to the scene for now. But I heard a blast twice.”
While the cause of the crash remained unclear initially, it was later revealed that the NAF MI-35P helicopter had taken off for an operation against oil thieves in Rivers State.
In an official statement, the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, confirmed the crash, stating, “A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) MI-35P helicopter has crashed at Port Harcourt today, December 1, 2023. The unfortunate incident occurred at about 7.45 am shortly after the aircraft took off for an operation against economic saboteurs in Rivers State.”
According to the statement, all five individuals on board survived with minor injuries and are currently receiving medical attention at the NAF Medical Centre in Port Harcourt.
Air Commodore Gabkwet added, “The Chief of Air Staff is currently en route to Port Harcourt to assess the situation for himself, see to the well-being of the crew, and give further directives.”
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with military flying, highlighting the challenges faced by NAF pilots and technicians in their dedicated efforts to defend the nation and combat criminal activities.