A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) MI-35P helicopter crashed and exploded at Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, on Friday morning.
The cause of the Helicopter crash remains unknown, but all five crew members on board miraculously survived and were promptly evacuated to a military facility for medical treatment.
According to NAF spokesman Air Cadre Edward Gabkwet, as reported by Leadership, the crash occurred at approximately 7:45 a.m., shortly after the helicopter took off for an operation targeting economic saboteurs in Rivers State.
Gabkwet stated, “Fortunately, the entire crew of five survived the crash with very minor injuries and are currently being attended to at NAF Medical Centre Port Harcourt.”
Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, has taken immediate action by heading to Port Harcourt to assess the situation firsthand.
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His primary focus is on ensuring the well-being of the crew and providing further directives in response to the incident.
Gabkwet emphasized that this incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with military flying.
He acknowledged the risks that NAF pilots and technicians face in their crucial roles of defending the nation and deterring criminal elements from engaging in nefarious activities.
As investigations into the crash commence, the Nigerian Air Force remains dedicated to prioritizing the safety and welfare of its personnel while carrying out vital missions to protect the country.