Here’s a rephrased version of the report:
More than 48 hours after a helicopter crashed in the Port Harcourt area of Rivers State, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) reported that neither the debris nor the three remaining individuals on board have been located.
In a statement issued Saturday, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, noted that as of 7:30 a.m. local time, search teams resumed their efforts, adhering to global best practices. However, the teams left the site later that day without any findings.
According to the bureau, the search area was expanded to improve chances of locating debris or possible signs of survivors.
On Thursday, a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registered as 5NBQG and operated by Eastwind Aviation, crashed en route to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN. The helicopter carried eight individuals on board, comprising six passengers and two crew members.
NSIB, now investigating the incident, confirmed that search operations are ongoing with hopes of discovering survivors.
The statement read in part: “On the morning of October 25, 2024, at 7:30 a.m. local time, search operations resumed, with an expanded search area aimed at locating debris or signs of survivors. A team of NSIB Aviation Safety Investigators, along with representatives from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, arrived at the NUIMS ANTAN facility at 11:30 a.m. to interview staff members and gather information critical to the investigation. The team concluded on-site interviews and departed the facility at 3:24 p.m.
“At approximately 6:15 p.m., search operations were suspended due to limited daylight. Unfortunately, no debris, survivors, or bodies were located during the day’s search.”
The NSIB noted that divers established a secure diving perimeter at a probable crash site, with operations set to continue the following day.
The perimeter depth, estimated at 40-50 meters, will require additional equipment and resources for continued search efforts.
Quoting NSIB’s Director General, Captain Alex Badeh, Olajide expressed, “We recognize the relentless efforts of all rescue teams and supporting partners. We remain committed to continuing these operations with all necessary resources and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.”
