The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has located the wreckage of a helicopter that crashed into the Atlantic Ocean while transporting Nigerian National Petroleum Limited workers from Port Harcourt.
This information was revealed in a statement by Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, on Thursday.
Recall that the helicopter was carrying eight passengers and crew members when it crashed into the ocean last Thursday.
So far, five bodies have been recovered, while three other passengers remain missing. The bodies were found on different days over an eight-day search led by a coalition of agencies.
In the statement, the NSIB confirmed that an allied team and its partners leading the search and recovery operation had located the wreckage of the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, with registration number 5N BQG.
The wreckage was identified approximately 0.775 nautical miles “from the FPSO Adoon. It was located at a depth of 42 meters, with coordinates registered at Latitude 04° 13.634’ N and Longitude 008° 19.442’ E. Preparations are currently underway for the helicopter’s recovery to support further investigation.”
The Director General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh, commended the search team and partners leading the search and recovery efforts.
He said, “Locating the wreckage is a critical milestone in our efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.
“The dedication and cooperation shown by all involved parties have been exceptional, and we are determined to conduct a thorough investigation to provide clarity and closure to the families of those affected.”