Helicopter crash: Two bodies, not five recovered, says NSIB

 The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has clarified its previous statement, retracting the claim that five bodies had been recovered from the Atlantic Ocean following the crash of a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration number 5N-BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation, last Thursday.

The Director General of the NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh, initially announced on Channels TV that the number of bodies retrieved from the crash site had risen to five. However, on Sunday, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the NSIB, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, issued a statement correcting this, confirming that only three bodies have been recovered so far.

Oladeji stated, “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 on October 25, 2024, and although divers located two additional bodies, strong ocean currents, and limited visibility prevented their retrieval at that time.

“The recovery of the remaining persons on board remains a top priority for the coordinated search, rescue, and recovery team.”

The NSIB also announced plans to deploy a Remotely Operated Vehicle equipped with advanced sensors and cameras to the site to improve visibility and precision in the deep-water environment.

“This ROV will facilitate detailed inspection, enable targeted retrieval operations, and assist in gathering vital evidence that will support our investigation into the incident,” Oladeji added.

Quoting NSIB Director General, Capt. Alex Badeh, Oladeji emphasised the Bureau’s dedication to the recovery and investigation efforts.

He said, “The NSIB, along with our partners, is fully committed to locating and recovering all individuals and critical components from this unfortunate accident. Our team is working tirelessly under challenging conditions to conduct a thorough investigation that will provide clear answers for families, loved ones, and the nation.”

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited also reiterated that only three bodies have been recovered. In a statement signed by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, the NNPCL confirmed, “Beyond the three bodies found in the ill-fated helicopter operated by Eastwind Aviation that crashed on Thursday in Port Harcourt, no other bodies have been recovered.

“The Company further notes that intensified search and rescue operations with the relevant authorities remain ongoing. Once again, our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this tragic incident.”