The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) announced the recovery of a fifth body from the October 24 helicopter crash in the Atlantic Ocean near Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday evening by NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, the bureau reported ongoing recovery and investigative efforts following the crash of a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter (registration 5N BQG) operated by Eastwind Aviation.
The statement noted that the fifth body, due to its decomposed state, required special handling prior to its transfer to the morgue.
NSIB Director-General Alex Badeh reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to collaborating with national and international partners to ensure a thorough and respectful recovery process. “Our priority remains to uncover information that will explain the circumstances of this accident. We appreciate the coordinated support from all involved, including the Nigerian Navy, for their assistance in this challenging environment,” Badeh stated.
The crash, which occurred off the coast near Bonny Finima, involved eight individuals onboard. The NSIB detailed its recent investigative steps, which began at 9:35 a.m. when the HD Steadfast vessel identified a body in the water. A Fast Rescue Craft (FRC) was deployed, and by 11:15 a.m., the body had been successfully retrieved and moved to the FPSO deck.
Despite challenging sea conditions, the NSIB and supporting teams, including Antan HSE, Eastwind Aviation, and the Nigerian Navy, coordinated efforts for further aerial and marine searches. By evening, divers located fragments of fibreglass and aluminum, likely from the helicopter, which will help refine search efforts moving forward.
The NSIB affirmed its commitment to its safety mandate and expressed condolences to the affected families, emphasizing its ongoing dedication to a complete and careful recovery operation.
