The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has said that five people are still missing in the incident of a crashed helicopter that took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN on Thursday, even as it revealed that it engaged the crashed helicopter.
In a statement On Thursday, Olufemi O. Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd, said there were eight people on the helicopter which took off on October 24, at about 11.22am. So far, three bodies have been found. The eight people include six passengers and two crew members.
He explained that the helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation and engaged by NNPC.
The statement reads, ” 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.
“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.
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“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 will continue to do everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.”
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