NAF helicopter crashes in Katsina

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The Nigeria Air Force (NAF) on Wednesday confirmed the crash of its helicopter that was returning from a combat mission in Katsina State.

It, however, said no life was lost in the crash, which occurred at about 3.30pm yesterday.

NAF spokesman Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola said in a statement that the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, has ordered a probe of the incident.

Daramola said: “A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) helicopter has crashed in the process of landing while returning from an anti-armed banditry combat mission in the Northwest Theatre under Operation Hadaran Daji.

“Details of the cause of the incident, which occurred at the Katsina Airport at about 3.30pm, are still scanty. However, there was no loss of life, either of persons on board the helicopter or on the ground.

“The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, has immediately directed the constitution of a Board of Inquiry to determine the exact cause of the incident.

“The NAF continues to solicit the understanding and support of the general public as it daily strives to ensure the security of Nigeria and Nigerians.”