The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on Thursday confirmed that three bodies have been recovered in a helicopter crash in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The oil company said that eight persons (6 passengers and 2 crew members) were aboard the helicopter operated by East Winds Aviation.
“On the 24th of October 2024, about 11:22am, we lost contact with the Helicopter – Register Number: 5NBQG, engaged by NNPC Limited, that took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN. The helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation,” NNPC spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye said in a statement.
Adding, “There were 8 persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members). The appropriate authorities have been contacted, including the Ministry of Aviation, who have since issued a press statement.
“Search and rescue missions are currently ongoing. So far, three (3) bodies have been recovered.
“We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as the events unfold. Our prayers are with the passengers, crew and their respective families at this very difficult time.
“We assure that we will continue doing everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.”
NNPCL did not disclose the names or status of the persons on board as at the time of this report.
