Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said on Monday it has activated an immediate search and rescue operation following an ATR-42 aircraft accident in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday.
A statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, said, “The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
“Search and rescue operations, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies, are currently ongoing. The NAF is committed to ensuring the success of the ongoing search and rescue efforts.
“Further details will be communicated in due course.”
Many people were reported dead after the helicopter crashed on Monday.
It was gathered that the incident, which occurred in the coastal community, sparked panic among residents, although details of the crash remained sketchy by press time. The identity of the helicopter was not immediately known just as the occupants could not be identified.
A community leader, who spoke in confidence, confirmed the crash but said residents were yet to establish the exact location and other details. According to him, “Yes, it is true. A helicopter crashed at Igbokoda, Ondo State, but we don’t know the exact place and other details.”
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said he was not aware of the incident when contacted. Abayomi, however, said he would get back to journalists after conducting further checks. As of press time, there was no official confirmation of the reported casualties or details of the aircraft involved.
