A helicopter has crashed in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, with authorities yet to establish the number or condition of people who were aboard the aircraft.
The incident occurred on Monday morning in a swampy area opposite the naval base in the coastal community, causing concern among residents.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the crash, saying it was still gathering information on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
In a statement, the command appealed to residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified reports.
“The Command urges members of the public, particularly residents of Igbokoda and adjoining communities, to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified information. The public will be duly informed as soon as further credible information becomes available,” the police said.
The Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, also confirmed the incident.
Oripelaye said the aircraft was consumed by fire and reduced to rubble, while military equipment was recovered from the site.
“We have confirmed that a helicopter crashed in the area, but we cannot ascertain the number of people that were on board yet. Military gear was found at the scene, but the helicopter had burnt to rubble,” he said.
Following the crash, security personnel moved to the area to secure the scene and assist with the initial assessment of the wreckage.
Residents and other witnesses also gathered around the site as authorities commenced efforts to determine the circumstances of the accident.
There was, however, no official confirmation of the identity or operator of the helicopter, its point of departure or destination.
The status of the occupants also remained unclear as of the time of filing this report.
Further details are expected from the police, military and other relevant authorities as investigations and assessment of the crash site continue.
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