Over 48 hours have passed since the tragic helicopter crash in the Port Harcourt area of Rivers state, and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has reported that the debris of the chopper and the three missing individuals have not yet been located.
In a recent statement, the NSIB confirmed that search operations had recommenced but yielded no results as of the same day. The search area was expanded in an attempt to find any signs of survivors or wreckage.
The helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration number 5NBQG and operated by Eastwind Aviation, crashed while en route to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN. There were a total of 8 individuals on board at the time of the accident.
The NSIB is actively investigating the incident and has expressed hope in finding survivors. Search and rescue operations continue as they aim to locate any possible survivors or wreckage.
Despite the efforts of the rescue teams and partners involved, no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during the day’s search efforts. Divers have established a diving perimeter at the expected wreck location, with plans to deploy additional resources for continued search operations.
NSIB’s Director General, Captain Alex Badeh, has acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the rescue teams and partners and assured that operations will persist with full cooperation from all stakeholders.