The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has made clarification on the number of bodies recovered in its ongoing operations from the helicopter crash in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Sikorsky SK76 helicopter with registration 5N BQG
operated by Eastwind Aviation, ditched into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima on Thursday, October 24, 2024.
According to the Bureau, only three bodies have been retrieved so far, out of the eight persons onboard the aircraft at the time of the incident.
The Bureau disclosed this in an update signed by its Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji and made available to Thelensng on Sunday
The statement partly read: “There were eight persons onboard the aircraft at the time of the incident.
“Contrary to reports suggesting that five bodies have been recovered, we confirm that only three bodies were retrieved on the day of the incident.
“Efforts to locate the remaining individuals continued the following day – October 25, 2024, and two additional bodies were located by divers, but due to strong ocean currents and limited visibility, these bodies could not be retrieved at that time”.
The Bureau noted that the recovery of the remaining persons onboard remains a top priority for the amalgamated search, rescue and recovery team.
The NSIB further added that it is working to deploy a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to the site, equipped with advanced sensors and cameras to enhance visibility and precision in the deep-water environment.
The ROV,it explained will facilitate detailed inspection, enable targeted retrieval operations, and assist in gathering vital evidence that will support its investigation into the incident.
Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of the NSIB, addressed the ongoing commitment of the Bureau to the recovery and investigation.
His words: “The NSIB, alongside our partners, is fully committed to locating and recovering all individuals and critical components from this unfortunate accident.
“Our team is working tirelessly to manage the challenging conditions. We remain committed to a thorough investigation that will provide clear answers for the families, loved ones, and the nation.”
The NSIB’s pointed out that investigation is progressing with support from a joint team of government agencies and private partners.
It urged the public to refrain from speculation, which can hinder and distract from the investigation and recovery efforts.
The Bureau states that updates on the progress of recovery operations and investigative findings will be provided as soon as verified information becomes available.
The NSIB added that it remains steadfast in promoting transparency and accountability through its independent investigation process, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria.
