A Nigerian Air Force helicopter crashed and exploded at air force base in Port Harcourt, River State.
The incident occurred on Friday, December 1, 2023, at approximately 7:00 a.m.
‘I was in my apartment when I heard what sounded like thunder at the NAF base. The next thing I saw was flames. I am not sure if there were any casualties because I am not allowed to approach the scene now. But I heard the sound of explosions twice,” a source told The Punch.
Air Force Admiral Edward Gabkwet, NAF director of public affairs and information, who confirmed the incident, said the five people on board survived with minor injuries.
Gabkwet said the NAF MI-35P took off to embark on an operation against oil thieves in River State.
A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) MI-35P helicopter crashed in Port Harcourt today, December 1. The unfortunate accident occurred shortly after take-off for an operation against economic saboteurs in River State at about 7:45 am.
Fortunately, all five crew members escaped the crash with minor injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the NAF Medical Center Port Harcourt.
Air Chief Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, is on his way to the scene to assess the situation.
Air Chief Marshal Hasan Abubakar is currently on his way to Port Harcourt to personally assess the situation, confirm the safety of the crew and issue further instructions.
‘Incidents such as this are yet another reminder of the dangers associated with military flying and the dangers experienced by NAF pilots and technicians in defending our country and deterring the nefarious activities of criminals.
