The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited(NNPCL) has confirmed that it hired the helicopter that crashed into the river in Rivers State on Thursday.
NNPCL in a statement issued by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, on Thursday said: “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.”
Earlier report indicates that there were eight persons onboard the helicopter.
He added: “The appropriate authorities have been contacted, including the Ministry of Aviation, who have since issued a press statement.
“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 assure that we will continue doing everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.”
