SAN FRANCISCO, August 12, (THEWILL) – A chopper has crashed into the Lagoon near the Oworonshoki end of the 3rd Mainland Bridge in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub.
The unidentified helicopter was headed to Lagos Island from Ikeja when it went down around 3.p.m, witnesses told local television station, Channels TV.
Emergency personnel are presently at the scene of the crash.
Update:
Three persons have so far been confirmed dead and their bodies have been removed from the chopper, while three other survivors with injuries have been transported to local hospitals.
As at this time, the identity of the helicopter remained unclear.
The South-West Spokesman for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr. Ibrahim Farinloye, confirmed the development to the press.
THEWILL can report that emergency personnel are still working at the crash site.
Update I:
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed that the helicopter is registered to Bristow Helicopters, Lagos, saying that it had 12 people onboard when it went down.
A statement by NCAA’s spokesman, Mr. Fan Ndubuoke said:” A Bristow Helicopter with registration number 5N – BDG – 760540 en route from one of the nation’s oilrigs has crashed at Oworonshoki, Lagos, today.
“The Helicopter scheduled to arrive Lagos at 15.35pm had 12 people on board including the crew. However, the number of casualties is yet to be determined.
“At present officials of the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Nigeria Police are at the site providing rescue operation for the victims.
“While this is ongoing, further details will be communicated as appropriate.”
Update II:
So far, four dead and six rescued alive. Status of two others unclear as at 9.pm local time.
