Tragedy struck on Monday morning in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, as a helicopter crashed in a swampy area opposite the naval base, sparking panic among residents of the coastal community.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident, noting that details surrounding the crash were still emerging. Authorities assured the public that efforts were underway to establish the circumstances of the accident and urged residents to remain calm.
“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 stated.
Maurice Oripelaye, Chairman of Ilaje LGA, also confirmed the crash in a telephone interview with journalists. He disclosed that military gear was recovered from the crash site, adding that the aircraft had been destroyed by fire.
“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,” Oripelaye said.
Eyewitnesses reported that the crash occurred in the swampy terrain opposite the naval base, with security personnel and other relevant agencies swiftly moving in to secure the area. Residents gathered around the site as authorities began assessing the wreckage and investigating the cause of the crash.
