The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has clarified that only three bodies have so far been recovered from the ill-fated helicopter that crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, last Thursday.
NSIB stated in a release, on Sunday, by its Director (Public Affairs and Family Assistance), Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, that the clarification was to correct some misinformation concerning the ongoing recovery operations for the ditched helicopter.
The Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, operated by East Winds Aviation, ditched into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima, on Thursday, with eight persons on board, including six passengers and two crew members.
NSIB stated in the release that three bodies recovered on the day of the incident, while two additional bodies were located by divers the following day (Friday) but could not be retrieved due to strong ocean current and poor visibility.
“There were eight persons onboard the aircraft at the time of the incident. 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 the following day -October 25, 2024, and two additional bodies were located by divers. But due to strong ocean currents and limited visibility, these bodies could not be retrieved at that time.
“The recovery of the remaining persons onboard remains a top priority for the amalgamated search, rescue and recovery team,” NSIB added.
The Bureau stated that it is working to deploy a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to the site, equipped with advanced sensors and cameras to enhance visibility and precision in the deep-water environment.
The ROV, NSIB stated, will facilitate detailed inspection, enable targeted retrieval operations and assist in gathering vital evidence that will support its investigation into the incident.
NSIB Director General, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., addressed the commitment of the Bureau to the recovery and investigation efforts.
He stated: “The NSIB, alongside our partners, is fully committed to locating and recovering all individuals and critical components from this unfortunate accident.
“Our team is working tirelessly to manage the challenging conditions. We remain committed to a thorough investigation that will provide clear answers for the families, loved ones and the nation.”
The NSIB also stated in the release that its investigation is progressing, with support from a joint team of government agencies and private partners.
“We urge the public to refrain from speculation, which can hinder and distract from the investigation and recovery efforts.
“Updates on the progress of recovery operations and investigative findings will be provided as soon as verified information becomes available.
“The NSIB remains steadfast in promoting transparency and accountability through its independent investigation process, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria,” the Bureau added.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) is the multimodal transport agency charged with the mandate of promoting transport safety and conducting objective, thorough and accurate investigations into transport accidents and incidents in Nigeria.
It is saddle with the responsibility of identifying the probable causes transport accidents and incidents, and advocating for safety improvements, based on its findings.
