Helicopter Crash: Nigerian Investigation Bureau NSIB Continues Search, Yet To Locate Debris

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) announced that it is continuing its search and recovery efforts following the crash of a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Thursday.

The Bureau stated that additional diving equipment and resources would be deployed to aid in the continuation of the efforts.

The crash happened around 11:22am near Bonny Finima, off the coast of Port Harcourt.

Eight persons (six passengers and two crew members) were on board the aircraft when the incident happened.

So far, five bodies have been recovered while three more persons remain unaccounted for.

The NSIB in an update it issued late on Friday, said search operations were suspended at approximately 6:15pm due to diminishing daylight. 

It said that no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered yet during the day’s search. 

The statement signed by NSIB’s spokesperson, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, however, noted that the divers successfully established a secured diving perimeter at an expected location of the wreck, which will guide the operations planned for Saturday.

The perimeter depth, according to the statement, has been measured at 40-50 meters.

Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of the NSIB, stated, “We acknowledge the tireless efforts of the amalgamated rescue teams and supporting partners. We will continue these operations with every resource necessary and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.”

The NSIB said that it remains committed to providing timely updates as the investigation advances and to conducting a thorough and transparent analysis of the incident.

It added that further details would be released as they become available.