The Rivers State Police Command has reported that all eight passengers aboard a helicopter that crashed in Port Harcourt may have lost their lives. The unfortunate incident occurred on Thursday, October 24, at approximately 11:22 AM along the waterways of the state capital.
Initially, three fatalities were confirmed following the crash of the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registered as 5NBQG and operated by East Wind Aviation. The aircraft had taken off from the Port Harcourt Military Base, bound for the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN oil rig, before it ditched into the water near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean.
In an official statement, the Rivers State Police Command, represented by Public Relations Officer SP Grace Iringe-Koko, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, noting that all passengers are feared dead.
The statement included details from Mr. Ifeanyi Udogwu, a staff member of Antan Producing Limited, who reported the helicopter's departure and subsequent crash. The helicopter was carrying two crew members and six passengers when it reportedly ditched into the ocean near Antan Producing Limited’s Mimbo platform and FPSO.
The Marine Division of the Rivers State Police is currently collaborating with other agencies to recover the aircraft and search for the victims.
Festus Keyamo, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, confirmed the incident in a press release.
The Rivers State Police Command extended its condolences to the families of the victims during this difficult time.
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