- NSIB To Deploy More Diving Equipment, Five Bodies Recovered
- Four Of Our Members Killed In Crash-PENGASSAN
Over 24 hours after a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter in Port Harcourt, Rivers State with 8 people onboard, the search for survivors or the corpses of the remaining three people aboard the ill-fated helicopter continues.
So far, five people have been officially confirmed dead and their bodies recovered while 3 people are still unaccounted for.
To this effect, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has disclosed that search and recovery efforts are still ongoing.
The Bureau stated that additional diving equipment and resources will be deployed to aid in the continuation of these efforts.
The NSIB in an update it issued late on Friday, said search operations were suspended at approximately 6:15 PM due to diminishing daylight. It said that unfortunately, no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during the day’s search.
The statement signed by NSIB’s spokesperson, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji, however, noted that the divers successfully established a secured diving perimeter at an expected location of the wreck, which will guide the operations planned for Saturday.
The perimeter depth, according to the statement, has been measured at 40-50 meters.
Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of the NSIB, stated, “We acknowledge the tireless efforts of the amalgamated rescue teams and supporting partners. We will continue these operations with every resource necessary and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.”
The NSIB said that it remains committed to providing timely updates as the investigation advances and to conducting a thorough and transparent analysis of the incident.
It added that further details will be released as they become available.
Meanwhile, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has disclosed that four of its members were killed in the ill-fated crash.
According to a statement signed by the President of the association, Comrade Engr Festus Osifo on Friday, he mourned the crash which he said claimed the lives of four of its valuable members.
“The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) is deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of four of its esteemed members. The crash occurred in the early hours of Thursday 24th October 2024 in Rivers State.
“The deceased members were valued members of the PENGASSAN family and dedicated professionals in the Oil and Gas industry. Their contributions to the sector and to our association will be sorely missed.”
It extended its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the victims during the difficult time.
“We share in their grief and offer our unwavering support as we navigate this tragic event. We are committed to providing assistance to the bereaved families in any way possible.”
He noted that the association is currently working to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding the crash, and is cooperating fully with the relevant authorities in their investigation.
“We urge all parties involved to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the cause of the accident and urgent measures put in place to prevent future tragedies.
“PENGASSAN calls for all her members everywhere through the branches to observe a moment of silence and reflection in honour of our fallen Comrades. Their dedication and service to the Oil and Gas industry will never be forgotten.
“We will continue to update the public as more information becomes available.”
