NAF Deploys Pumping Machines To Reach Submerged Wr£ckage Of Military Aircraft That K!lled 25 In Ondo
NAF Deploys Pumping Machines To Reach Submerged Wreckage Of Military Aircraft That Killed 25 In Ondo
The main wreckage remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed, with difficult underwater conditions and challenging terrain complicating recovery operations.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed multiple pumping machines to remove water around the site of a military aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as efforts continue to access the wreckage of the aircraft that killed 25 people.
The main wreckage remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed, with difficult underwater conditions and challenging terrain complicating recovery operations.
In a statement issued on Friday, and signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, the NAF said the deployment of the pumping equipment represented a critical step towards accessing the main wreckage and advancing the next phase of the recovery operation.
“The ongoing deployment of pumping equipment represents an important step towards facilitating the next phase of recovery,” the statement said.
The Air Force acknowledged the challenges facing recovery personnel, explaining that the depth at which the wreckage lies and the condition of the riverbed had made the operation complex.
It said the recovery effort required “sustained effort, specialised technical support and careful coordination” to ensure the operation proceeded safely and effectively.
The NAF added that personnel remained committed to accessing the main wreckage while prioritising their safety and maintaining respect for the victims.
The update came as the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, visited Igbokoda on the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
During the visit, Ekwueme engaged community leaders and residents over concerns about the potential impact of the ongoing recovery operation on their water source.
The engagement followed complaints by residents about foul-smelling water in the community.
According to the NAF, Ekwueme acknowledged the concerns and assured residents of the service’s commitment to addressing the issues.
The Air Force also expressed appreciation to the community for its patience and cooperation as recovery operations continued.
Meanwhile, the Chief of the Air Staff reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to supporting families affected by the crash.
The service said applicable entitlements, including benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other approved welfare benefits, would be processed.
It added that it remained in contact with the bereaved families and had established a dedicated helpline at NAF headquarters to facilitate access to information.
The Air Force said it would sustain recovery operations, continue supporting affected families and provide verified updates on significant developments.
