The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has reported that, more than 48 hours after a helicopter crash in the Port Harcourt area of Rivers State, neither the aircraft’s wreckage nor the three missing individuals have been found.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Bimbo Oladeji, reported that “as of 7:30 a.m. local time, rescue teams resumed search operations in accordance with global best practices.”
However, the teams departed the site later that day without recovering any debris or locating the missing persons.
According to the bureau, the search area was expanded as part of ongoing efforts to locate debris or signs of survivors.
On Thursday, A Sikorsky SK76 helicopter with registration number 5NBQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation, crashed on its way to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN.There were 8 persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members).
The NSIB, which has commenced investigation of the incident, stated that rescue operations had continued to see the possibility of 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.”
Quoting the Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh, Olajide noted, “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.”
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