Helicopter Crash: NSIB gives update, says 5th body recovered

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) on Wednesday said it has recovered the fifth body from the October 24 helicopter crash that occurred in the Atlantic Ocean in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The update was contained in a statement signed by NSIB’s Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji.

It said the bureau continued its coordinated recovery operation and investigation following the ditching of a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation.

According to the statement, a total of five bodies have been recovered so far and the fifth body recovered today required specialised handling due to its decomposed state before being transported to the morgue.

The Director-General of NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh, said that the bureau would continue to collaborate with national and international partners to ensure a diligent recovery and investigative process.

Badeh said that the investigation process would be in line with its mandate to promote transportation safety across Nigeria.

“The recovery operation presents unique challenges due to the environmental conditions, but our team and partners are dedicated to bringing this mission to completion with utmost professionalism and care.

“We are grateful for the coordinated support from everyone involved in this recovery effort, including the Nigerian Navy, in ensuring a respectful recovery process.

“Our primary objective remains to uncover information that will fully explain the circumstances of this accident, and our thoughts continue to be with the families affected,” he said.