RIVERS: Three bodies not five recovered from Port Harcourt helicopter crash – NSIB

The helicopter, which was carrying six passengers and two crew members, went down into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Calabar.

Following the incident, various media reports claimed that five bodies had been recovered by emergency responders.

In an update on the situation released today, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, stated that while two additional bodies were located, they were not retrieved at that time.

She noted that equipment has been deployed to conduct an underwater search for more bodies.

“Contrary to reports indicating that five bodies have been recovered, we confirm that only three bodies were retrieved on the day of the incident,” the statement said.

“Efforts to locate the remaining individuals continued the next day, October 25, 2024, when divers located two additional bodies, but strong ocean currents and limited visibility prevented their retrieval at that time.

“The recovery of the remaining individuals on board is a top priority for the combined search, rescue, and recovery team.”

According to Oladeji, NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. emphasized the Bureau’s ongoing commitment to recovery and investigation efforts.

“The NSIB, along with our partners, is fully dedicated to locating and recovering all individuals and critical components from this tragic accident. Our team is working diligently to navigate the challenging conditions,” she quoted Badeh as stating.

“We remain committed to conducting a thorough investigation that will provide clear answers for the families, loved ones, and the nation.”

Oladeji added that the Bureau is making progress in its investigation with the assistance of a joint team of government agencies and private partners.

“We urge the public to avoid speculation, as it can hinder and distract from the investigation and recovery efforts. Updates on the progress of recovery operations and investigative findings will be shared as soon as verified information is available.

“The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau is committed to promoting transparency and accountability through its independent investigation process, reinforcing its dedication to enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria,” the statement concluded.

The Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, operated by East Wind Aviation and chartered by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, crashed in Rivers State on October 24 while flying from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in Port Harcourt to the national oil company’s floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) facility.